Atalanta 0-0 Arsenal: David Raya shines with a stunning double save, helping the Gunners secure a point in their Champions League debut.
**Raya’s Heroics Earn Arsenal a Point in Champions League Opener**
In a tense encounter at the Gewiss Stadium, Arsenal managed to secure a hard-fought point against Atalanta, with goalkeeper David Raya emerging as the hero of the night. The match ended in a goalless draw, but it will be remembered for Raya’s remarkable double save that denied Mateo Retegui from the penalty spot and then again from close range.
The game itself was a rather uneventful affair, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances. However, it was a moment of brilliance from Raya that stole the show. After Thomas Partey was penalised for a foul on Brazilian midfielder Ederson, Retegui stepped up to take the spot-kick. Raya, showing great composure, dived to his left to parry the penalty away, only to spring back to his feet and deny Retegui’s header from the rebound.
Partey, who had conceded the penalty, must have felt a wave of relief as his goalkeeper’s heroics kept the scoreline level. Arsenal approached the match with caution, mindful of Atalanta’s impressive pedigree, having knocked Liverpool out en route to winning the UEFA Europa League last season.
In the first half, Bukayo Saka came closest to breaking the deadlock, but his low free-kick was expertly saved by Atalanta’s Marco Carnesecchi. The Gunners continued to press in the second half, with substitute Raheem Sterling providing a clever pass to Gabriel Martinelli, who unfortunately blazed his shot over the bar.
Reflecting on the match, Raya stated, “They didn’t create many chances, just the penalty and that’s it. A point away from home, the first Champions League game. We weren’t at our best today. If we can’t win the game then we don’t lose it. It was a penalty, I was lucky to go the right way and save it. I was lucky to get the rebound. I was quick enough to get up and save the rebound.”
Looking ahead, Arsenal will be keen to build on this performance as they prepare for their next Champions League fixture at home against Paris Saint-Germain in October, followed by a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City this Sunday.
**Talking Point – Raya: Arsenal’s Stalwart in Goal**
Arsenal’s defensive resilience has been a highlight of their season thus far, with the Gunners recording four clean sheets in five competitive matches. Against a formidable Atalanta side, they rarely looked troubled at the back, thanks in large part to Raya’s outstanding performance.
However, a moment of madness from Partey nearly cost them dearly when he fouled Ederson inside the box. Fortunately for the Ghanaian, Raya was on hand to save the day, showcasing his quick reflexes and determination.
**Player of the Match – David Raya (Arsenal)**
Raya’s performance was nothing short of sensational, and he will undoubtedly be a key figure for Arsenal as they aim for success this season. The 29-year-old, who began his career at Southport in the National League, has quickly become a fan favourite at the Emirates. His ability to deny Retegui’s penalty and then scramble across goal to thwart the rebound was a testament to his skill and agility.
**Player Ratings**
*Atalanta:* Carnesecchi 7, Djimsiti 6, Hien 7, Kolasinac 7, Zappacosta 7, De Roon 6, Ederson 7, Ruggeri 6, De Ketelaere 6, Retegui 6, Lookman 7. Subs: Bellanova 6, Cuadrado 7, Pasalic 6, Samardzic 6.
*Arsenal:* Raya 8, White 6, Saliba 7, Gabriel 7, Timber 6, Rice 7, Partey 6, Havertz 6, Saka 6, Gabriel Jesus 7, Martinelli 6. Subs: Calafiori 6, Jorginho 6, Sterling 6, Trossard 6.
**Match Highlights**
– **14′ – SAKA DENIED BY GOALKEEPER:** Saka’s low free-kick is expertly tipped away by Carnesecchi, who quickly recovers to deny Partey from close range.
– **52′ – RAYA SAVES PENALTY:** Partey fouls Ederson, leading to a penalty. Retegui steps up, but Raya guesses correctly and saves the shot, then reacts swiftly to deny the rebound header.
– **67′ – CLOSE BY CUADRADO:** The substitute flashes a shot just over Raya’s crossbar after cutting inside.
– **74′ – MARTINELLI CHANCE:** A brilliant through ball from Sterling sets up Martinelli, but the forward fires his effort over the bar, missing a golden opportunity to secure a win for the Gunners.
As the dust settles on this opening Champions League fixture, Arsenal will take heart from their defensive display, particularly the heroics of David Raya, as they look to build momentum in the weeks to come.