By admin 
Arsenal progressed to the Champions League last 16 with a 2-1 victory over Girona on Wednesday night.
Despite a strong start from the Gunners, it was Girona who struck first, with Arnaut Danjuma capitalising on a through-ball from Juanpe to finish past Neto in the 28th minute.
Arsenal responded quickly, equalising through Jorginho’s composed penalty after Thomas Partey was brought down in the box.
The visitors controlled the second half, dominating possession and creating the bulk of the chances.
Ethan Nwaneri, already the second-youngest English goalscorer in Champions League history, produced the moment of magic in the 42nd minute, cutting inside and curling a brilliant effort into the far corner.
Leandro Trossard struck the crossbar just before half-time as Arsenal pressed for a third.
Locked in for the knockout stage 🔐 pic.twitter.com/BoO0xdjuSx
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 29, 2025
And they could have had it with a few minutes to go after a Girona handball gave the Gunners another penalty.
Raheem Sterling stepped up but saw his effort saved, reflecting his tough time with the North London club this season.
Speaking after the game, Arteta said: “Really good at the moment. Things are going well.
“We won the last four games in the Champions League but winning in this competition is very demanding but overall the team has been very consistent, regardless of all the issues they have had to face.
“Hopefully more belief in that dressing room that we are a good team and can face anyone and still perform and win games.”
Before Arsenal’s win over Girona, reports broke that the club had seen a £60million bid for Ollie Watkins rejected.
It comes in the aftermath of Arteta admitting his side need a new striker, but they he refused to comment on the matter.
He added: “I can’t talk about any of that. My confidence is that we have an amazing club with people always working to try and improve. Let’s see what happens.”