Arsenal continued their impressive Champions League campaign with a 2-1 victory over Slavia Prague, although Mikel Arteta's side made considerably harder work of the occasion than their first-half dominance suggested.
Viktor Gyokeres delivered an outstanding performance, scoring once and providing an assist as Arsenal established a commanding advantage. Noni Madueke was equally influential, while Martin Zubimendi impressed in midfield.
However, Wiktor Nowak's late goal ensured a nervous finish, exposing defensive vulnerabilities that Arsenal will need to address as their European campaign progresses.
Gyokeres produced arguably his most complete performance in an Arsenal shirt, demonstrating the movement, physicality and technical quality that made him such an attractive attacking proposition.
His contribution to Madueke's opening goal illustrated his developing understanding with Arsenal's attacking players. The Swedish striker then produced a magnificent curling finish to double the visitors' advantage.
Madueke was exceptional throughout the opening period. His pace and directness repeatedly troubled Slavia's defence, while his willingness to work without possession demonstrated growing tactical maturity.
Eberechi Eze also impressed, drifting intelligently between defensive lines and creating opportunities through his close control.
Arsenal's second-half decline will concern Arteta, particularly given how comfortably his side had controlled proceedings before the interval.
Their attacking rhythm disappeared, defensive concentration deteriorated and Slavia gradually established a foothold.
Nowak's 90th-minute goal created an uncomfortable conclusion, with Arsenal's substitutes struggling to maintain the standards established earlier.
Martin Odegaard provided some welcome energy following his introduction, although the visitors ultimately relied on their defensive resilience to secure victory.
Starting XI
David Raya: 6
Ben White: 7
Ezri Konsa: 6
Gabriel: 8
Piero Hincapie: 6
Declan Rice: 7
Martin Zubimendi: 8
Noni Madueke: 8
Mikel Merino: 6
Eberechi Eze: 6
Viktor Gyokeres: 8
Substitutes
Cristhian Mosquera: 5
Christos Tzolis: 6
Jurrien Timber: 5
Martin Odegaard: 7
Arsenal's victory moves them into third place in the Champions League league-phase standings, maintaining their impressive European momentum.
Gyokeres' performance represents the evening's most encouraging development, suggesting Arsenal's attacking investment is beginning to deliver the influence Arteta requires.
Nevertheless, the dramatic conclusion highlighted an important lesson. Arsenal must develop greater consistency across 90 minutes, particularly when protecting comfortable advantages.
Against Europe's strongest opponents, such lapses could prove costly.
