Arsenal edged out a 2-1 win over FC Zurich on Thursday night to get their Europa League campaign off to a winning start.
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A debut strike from Marquinhos got the visitors off on the right foot but heading into half-time, things turned sour as the Swiss side drew level from the penalty spot. A tense second half followed, with Eddie Nketiah eventually easing the woes of the travelling fans with a header that won the game and sent the three points back to North London.
Positives
Once the pace of the game calmed down, courtesy of some strong dictating of play in midfield, Arsenal began to get into a rhythm. They were methodical with their assaults on goal, and they were diverse with their movements both down the flanks and through the middle. As their confidence grew, they were able to experiment a little with a counterattacking approach that often looked promising.
Negatives
There was definitely nervous energy within the opening 10 minutes as the Gunners struggled to keep the ball on the deck and largely played into the intense atmosphere of the crowd. That feeling was reignited upon the equaliser hitting the back of the net with defensive tension being evident, mainly under the threat of not wanting to let such a narrow lead slip.
Manager Rating (out of 10)
Mikel Arteta, 7 -- He began the game with a strong blend of experience and young talent in his starting XI and that seemed to pay off, as they played composed attacking football for long spells. Alas, he had to make better adjustments in the face of Zurich's smothering tactics, and his plan of holding out on substitutions with the hope that they retook the lead paid off . That said, it was surprising to see so many big names be introduced, somewhat showcasing how important this competition is to him.
Player ratings (1-10; 10 = best, players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating)
GK Matt Turner, 6 -- Was unable to stop the penalty equaliser, but did manage to make a few nice saves on a fairly quiet evening.
DF Gabriel Magalhaes, 5 -- Was constantly one to watch, but in a negative manner, as his misplaced passes were matched by his uneasy energy.
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DF Rob Holding, 5 -- Despite one or two nice recoveries, the Englishman was slow to the ball quite frequently and seemed off the pace in Zurich.
DF Takehiro Tomiyasu, 7 -- Carried the ball forward at will, cut through the opposition midfield like glass and was one of the most consistent players on the pitch.