Arsenal maintained their perfect start to the Champions League league phase with a 2-0 victory over Olympiakos at the Emirates Stadium, as Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka delivered decisive goals in a controlled performance.
The Gunners, who opened their campaign with a win over Athletic Club, made it two wins from two thanks to another influential display from Martinelli and the returning brilliance of captain Martin Ødegaard.
Early Breakthrough
Mikel Arteta’s men struck early, capitalising on their attacking intent from the outset. New striker Viktor Gyökeres bulldozed his way through the Olympiakos defence in the 12th minute, and though his shot was pushed onto the post by goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis, Martinelli reacted quickest to sweep home the rebound.
It was the Brazilian’s second goal in as many Champions League games this season, reinforcing his growing reputation on Europe’s biggest stage.
Olympiakos responded strongly, with Daniel Podence forcing David Raya into an excellent reflex save after connecting with a crisp volley. Francisco Chiquinho thought he had levelled with a sharp finish midway through the first half, but the goal was chalked off for offside after a VAR review.
Despite the scare, Arsenal carried the greater threat. Ødegaard, restored to the starting XI after battling a shoulder problem, orchestrated play with precision, threading passes in behind the Greek side’s defence. His vision repeatedly carved out openings, and he nearly doubled Arsenal’s lead with a fierce strike that Tzolakis tipped wide.
Control and Rotation
Arteta had made six changes from the side that dramatically beat Newcastle United at the weekend, showcasing the new depth afforded by the club’s £250m summer spend. Declan Rice and Saka were among those initially rested, allowing minutes for the likes of Eberechi Eze and Martín Zubimendi.
The rotation did little to disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm. William Saliba marshalled the defence confidently, while Gyökeres caused persistent problems with his physical presence. Raya, deputising for Aaron Ramsdale in Europe, impressed with assured handling and distribution under pressure.
Even as Olympiakos pressed after the break, Arsenal remained composed. Brave blocks from Gabriel Magalhães and White kept the visitors at bay, while Timber and Lewis-Skelly offered energy down the flanks.
Sealed by Saka
With time running out, Arsenal finally killed the contest in stoppage time. Ødegaard, continuing to dictate proceedings, spotted Saka’s run and slipped a precise pass through. The England international, only on as a second-half substitute, drove into the box and fired low past Tzolakis, the ball squeezing between the keeper’s legs.
It was the ideal finish for Arteta, who managed to protect his key men for large spells while still ensuring victory. The result also provided further evidence of Arsenal’s increasing maturity in Europe, where they are beginning to shed past inconsistencies.
Ødegaard the Difference
Named man of the match with an average rating of 8.43, Ødegaard’s influence was undeniable. His passing range repeatedly unlocked Olympiakos, and he was central to both goals—his awareness ensuring Martinelli’s chance and his creativity sealing Saka’s strike.
The Norwegian’s fitness issues earlier this season had forced Arteta to explore alternatives in midfield, but this performance highlighted why Ødegaard remains indispensable. Alongside Gyökeres’ power and Martinelli’s sharpness, he gave Arsenal the cutting edge.
Looking Ahead
The win extends Arsenal’s unbeaten start in all competitions and keeps them firmly on track to progress from their Champions League group. Arteta’s men return to Premier League action against West Ham on Saturday, where they will look to maintain pressure at the summit.
For Olympiakos, the defeat leaves them with much work to do if they are to challenge for qualification, though their spirited first-half display suggested they will not be pushovers.
At the Emirates, however, Arsenal once again showed they have the squad depth, tactical flexibility, and firepower to match their growing ambitions.
