Arsenal turned on the style in an amazing performance to defeat CSKA Moscow 4-1.
It was the Gunners’ first win over Russian opposition in Nine attempts. Arsene Wenger put forward his strongest team with Henrik Mhkitaryan and Lacazette returning to the starting lineup along with Granit Xhaka.
The Gunners started brightly and as early as the 9th minute, they were ahead. Aaron Ramsey got on the end of a Hector Bellerin cross to put it beyond Igor Akinfeev.
Arsenal were soon pegged back after French defender Laurent Koscielny gave away a needless freekick. Golovin took the opportunity and scored bringing the Russian outfit back on level terms.
Afterwards, there was a spell of pressure from CSKA and Ahmed Musa was close to putting the visitors ahead but he fluffed his lines.
Arsenal were in no mood to fluff theirs. Mesut Ozil was bearing down on goal and was brought down by a CSKA defender, the referee took his time, but eventually pointed to the spot. With all eyes on him, Alexander Lacazette slotted home cooly to make it 2-1, his second penalty goal in two games.
A free-flowing move was executed for Arsenal’s third with creator-in-chief, Mesut Ozil, clipping in a cross which Aaron Ramsey rather audaciously scored with a skillful flick.
The Gunners couldn’t stop scoring and soon it was 4-1. It was Ozil with another cross which Alexander Lacazette controlled and then rifled beyond Akinfeev.
The second half began with more chances coming Arsenal’s way. Lacazette and Ramsey were chasing their gat tricks but it was not to be.
Mhkitaryan went off injured and was replaced by Iwobi who made an amazing contribution but was unable to score.
Arsenal go into the second leg with a healthy lead, but it’s not over as CSKA have an away goal.
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