Arsenal secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday, moving them to the brink of the Champions League last 16. The emphatic win, marked by Declan Rice’s early goal and second-half strikes from Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard, has bolstered the Gunners’ campaign in the league phase.
Mikel Arteta’s team wasted no time, with Rice finding the back of the net just 106 seconds into the match. Gabriel Martinelli’s run down the left flank and precise cross set up the opening goal, giving Arsenal their fastest Champions League goal since 2014. This early lead set the tone at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal took control of the game.
Despite Dinamo’s efforts under manager Fabio Cannavaro, the Croatian champions struggled to create meaningful chances. Arsenal’s defense, led by Jakub Kiwior and Gabriel Magalhaes, remained solid throughout the match. Kiwior, stepping in for the injured William Saliba, performed confidently after a shaky defensive display against Aston Villa in their previous game.
In the second half, Havertz doubled Arsenal’s lead in the 66th minute with a glancing header from Martinelli’s pinpoint cross. This was a notable moment for the German forward, who has faced criticism in recent weeks. The goal marked his second in consecutive matches and seemed to restore confidence among Arsenal fans.
Martin Odegaard sealed the victory in stoppage time, calmly slotting in a cross from Leandro Trossard. The result moved Arsenal to third place in the standings, with five wins from seven games. They now sit three points ahead of teams below eighth place and are almost assured of a top-eight finish, which guarantees automatic qualification for the next stage.
The win was a much-needed boost for Arsenal after recent setbacks, including their FA Cup exit and a Premier League draw against Aston Villa. Arteta had urged his players to take full advantage of their strong position in the league phase, and his side delivered on the night.
With one game remaining against Girona next week, Arsenal only need a draw to secure their spot in the last 16.
