Arsenal 1-0 Shakhtar: Key Stats & Notes

Chartdata

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Oct 23, 2024

39 visitor like this post

Share

Arsenal 1-0 Shakhtar: Key Stats & Notes

The Gunners edged out Shakhtar Donetsk in a tense pre-season clash, securing a 1-0 victory thanks to a late goal. It wasn't a classic, but it provided valuable minutes for Arteta's squad and some interesting takeaways for the fans.

A Tight, Tense Affair

The game was a real nail-biter, with both teams struggling to break each other down. Arsenal had the majority of possession, but Shakhtar's defense was super stubborn. Honestly, the first half was a bit of a snoozefest, with few clear-cut chances.

Here are some of the key stats that highlight the tight nature of the match:

• Total shots: Arsenal (14) - Shakhtar (7)
• Shots on target: Arsenal (4) - Shakhtar (3)
• Possession: Arsenal (60%) - Shakhtar (40%)
• Pass accuracy: Arsenal (88%) - Shakhtar (83%)

Late Drama and a Winning Goal

The second half saw a bit more action, but it wasn't until the 86th minute that the deadlock was broken. A great run from Bukayo Saka down the right wing led to a cross that found the head of Eddie Nketiah, who calmly slotted the ball past the Shakhtar keeper.

Nketiah's goal was the difference, but it was a real team effort. The Gunners looked sharper in the second half, with the midfield dictating the tempo and the attack looking more threatening.

Key Observations and Takeaways

Here are a few things that stood out from the game:

• Nketiah's form: He looked sharp and confident, which is great to see after his recent struggles. He's a key player for Arsenal, and this performance will give him a boost.
• Saka's threat: As always, Saka was a constant danger on the right wing. His speed and dribbling skills were on full display, and he was a real handful for the Shakhtar defenders.
• Defensive solidity: Despite the lack of a clean sheet, the Arsenal defense looked organized and tough to break down. This is a positive sign for the upcoming season.

Overall, this was a good run-out for Arsenal, a good test against a decent opponent. There are still areas to improve, of course, but the signs are encouraging. The Gunners will be looking to build on this momentum as they continue their pre-season preparations.