LONDON, OCT 2 – Mikel Arteta hailed the ‘unbelievable’ Kai Havertz after the German inspired Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as the Gunners secured their first Champions League win of the season this.
Havertz headed Arsenal into the lead while Bukayo Saka scored before the break to show their superiority at the Emirates Stadium.
“The first half we were very dominant, how strong and courageous we were,” said Arteta.
“We had difficulties in the second half. The Champions League certainly presents a different challenge but we handled it well. I am very happy. It’s good for our faith. We put a sign on how we want to play against the best teams in Europe,” he added.
On Havertz’s performance, Arteta said: “He was unbelievable. His brains about football and his work ethic are incredible. Now he is a real threat in the penalty box. He is one of our key players at the moment.”
While PSG boss Luis Enrique slammed his players saying: “Arsenal are much better than us, in terms of seriousness and in the fight. It is impossible to exit the match with a positive result if you do not win any individual battles. From the first minute Arsenal were better than us. They deserve to win.”
Havertz opened the scoring in the 20th minute from Leandro Trossard’s cross as he raced in time behind the visitors’ defense to head bravely past goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
PSG’s cause was not helped by the absence of France winger Ousmane Dembele, who was ruled out after the 2018 World Cup winner reportedly clashed with Luis Enrique when he was substituted in their win over Rennes on Friday.
Nuno Mendes tried to provide an attacking spark for the sputtering visitors when the defender’s blast from 18 yards hit the post and bounced to safety.
Saka doubled their advantage in the 35th minute when a free-kick curled straight into the PSG goal, eluded several players and past a slow-to-react Donnarumma as it ricocheted straight into the net. – AFP
