With a 2-1 victory over FC Zurich on Wednesday night, Arsenal began their Europa League campaign in a positive way. Meanwhile, prior to the start of the second half, the players observed a minute of silence to honor the death of The Queen.
16’— Eddie Nketiah assists Marquinhos
62’— Marquinhos assists NketiahLinking up to give Arsenal the win 🤝 pic.twitter.com/TyEL3rT2Sn
— B/R Football (@brfootball) September 8, 2022
After a sluggish start, the Gunners gradually gained momentum and took the lead in the 16th minute following a sweeping counterattack.
Fabio Vieira put the ball into space as Eddie Nketiah broke in behind and crossed for Marquinhos to finish emphatically on his club debut.
Vieira and Granit Xhaka nearly added a second as Arsenal started to dominate. However, three minutes before halftime, they gave up a careless penalty.
Fidan Aliti was ruled to have been fouled by Nketiah inside the box. Mirlind Kryeziu scored with ease from the penalty spot to tie the score.
Both sets of players returned for the second half and gathered around the center circle for a minute’s silence to honor Her Majesty The Queen, Elizabeth II’s, death, which was announced during halftime.
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty The Queen.
Along with many of our supporters today, we will be taking time to mourn and reflect on Her Majesty’s incredible life and devoted service.
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) September 8, 2022
Trending Stories: Adam Lallana Appointed As Interim Player-Coach By Brighton After Graham Potter’s Departure
In the 62nd minute, Nketiah headed in Marquinhos’ cross at the back post to score the game-winning goal, making up for his earlier mistake.
Players on the field and manager Mikel Arteta, who had a black armband on, had a subdued reaction to the winning goal because of the depressing news from Buckingham Palace.
COMMENTS