Arsenal secure top spot after latest Europa League win

Defeat in Eindhoven on matchday five meant victory was imperative for the Gunners, needing to win the group to avoid a daunting play-off with sides dropping down from the Champions League.

Despite a strong start from the visitors, Mikel Arteta’s men would take the lead through an unlikely source, as Kieran Tierney netted his first goal of the season. The Scottish international showed tremendous technique to strike a bouncing ball into the bottom corner after Zürich had failed to clear their lines.

Arteta was clearly not content despite his side being a goal to the good, with the Swiss champions’ endeavour making them a constant threat, albeit with very little to test Aaron Ramsdale.

Arsenal remained the more threatening side, with both Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus brilliantly denied by Yanick Brecher either side of the interval. The Gunners introduced Bukayo Saka and Thomas Partey on the hour mark to try and put the game to bed, but found themselves on the end of a real scare at the other end.

Antonio Marchesano’s driven shot was well kept out by Ramsdale, who was beaten by the rebound but the offside flag came to the Gunners’ rescue.

With PSV comfortably ahead in Norway, it was a nervy final few minutes for Arsenal as they held off the resilient visitors to ensure they finished top of the group. Despite a spirited display, Zürich’s miserable season continued, exiting Europe while sitting bottom of the Swiss Super League.

Flashscore Man of the Match: Kieran Tierney (Arsenal)