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Victor Petkov
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Arsenal super-subs save the day against Bilbao in Champions League opener
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Gabiel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard bagged the three points for the Gunners

Arsenal began their Champions League campaign in perfect fashion, securing a 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao in Spain to collect their first three points of the league phase.

The hosts looked threatening early on, earning a free kick in the eighth minute, but Oihan Sancet and Inaki Williams failed to capitalizek, allowing Arsenal’s defense to clear the danger with ease. The Gunners then created opportunities of their own, with Noni Madueke swinging a cross toward Eberechi Eze in the 21st minute, only for Andoni Gorosabel to clear it out.

Minutes later Viktor Gökeres, who was having troublesome first half, needed treatment after a clash of heads with Gabriel Magalhaes, but managed to continue.

Arsenal grew stronger after the break. Gokeres narrowly missed with a header before Madueke’s shot was gathered by Unai Simon. The breakthrough came in the 72nd minute when Gabriel Martinelli surged from midfield, powered past Gorosabel and Aitor Paredes, and coolly slotted the ball into the net to put Arsenal ahead.

Mikel Arteta’s bench made the difference again late on. Substitute Leandro Trossard sealed the win in the 87th minute, lifting the ball over Simón to make it 2-0 and wrap up the points.