Arsenal enhanced their chances of reaching the Champions League last 16 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday.
Mikel Arteta’s side took an early lead in their penultimate league phase fixture through Declan Rice’s clinical finish. Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard added second-half goals at the Emirates Stadium, lifting Arsenal to third place in the standings.
With five wins from seven league phase matches and only one defeat, Arsenal are on the brink of automatic qualification for the last 16. A draw against Girona in their final league phase game next week would guarantee a top-eight finish. Even a loss might suffice, given their superior goal difference and three-point cushion over the chasing pack.
The victory was a timely response for the Gunners after their frustrating 2-2 Premier League draw against Aston Villa, where they squandered a two-goal lead. Arsenal have struggled for consistency in recent weeks, managing only two wins in their last six matches across all competitions.
Arteta emphasized the importance of capitalizing on their “strong position” in the league phase, and his players delivered. The decision to field Jakub Kiwior in central defence, compensating for the injured William Saliba, proved effective as Arsenal kept a clean sheet against a Dinamo side vying for a playoff spot.
Arsenal now shift focus to their final league phase game, which could secure their path to the Champions League knockout stages, as they aim to continue their European campaign on a high note.
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