Arsenal Secures 2-0 Champions League Win Over Olympiacos

Arsenal secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Olympiacos at the Emirates Stadium on October 1, 2025, in their UEFA Champions League group stage match. Early dominance from Gabriel Martinelli set the tone with a goal in the 12th minute, while Bukayo Saka sealed the win during stoppage time thanks to a precise assist from Martin Ødegaard.

Ødegaard’s outstanding midfield performance, highlighted by his creativity and control, earned him the UEFA Player of the Match award. This win extends Arsenal’s Champions League winning streak to six and puts them at the top of their group.

Early Goal Sets the Tone For Arsenal

From the kickoff, Arsenal displayed an aggressive attacking strategy, pressuring Olympiacos high up the pitch. The breakthrough came in the 12th minute when Martinelli capitalized on a defensive lapse, slotting the ball calmly past the Olympiacos goalkeeper.

This early goal forced the visitors on the back foot, allowing Arsenal to control the pace of the game effectively. Martinelli’s sharp movement and clinical finishing demonstrated why he remains a vital component in Arsenal’s attacking lineup. The home crowd at the Emirates erupted, providing momentum for the remainder of the match.

Martin Ødegaard’s Midfield Masterclass in the Champions League

Ødegaard was the centerpiece of Arsenal’s midfield dominance throughout the match. His ability to distribute the ball accurately and create chances was evident as he completed 65 passes and fashioned four key opportunities for his teammates. Ødegaard’s vision and creativity enabled Arsenal to transition smoothly from defense to attack, keeping Olympiacos unsettled.

His assist for Saka’s second goal was a perfect example of his playmaking genius, threading a precise pass that broke the opposition’s defensive line. This commanding performance earned him the well-deserved UEFA Player of the Match accolade and highlighted his importance in Arsenal’s Champions League campaign.

Securing Top Spot and Extending Winning Streak

With this win, Arsenal not only achieved their first home victory against Olympiacos in the Champions League since 2012 but also extended their unbeaten run in the competition to six games. The three points place Arsenal at the summit of their group with six points from just two matches, providing a good platform for progression into the knockout stages.

Saka’s late goal in stoppage time sealed the victory and reflected Arsenal’s relentless pursuit of goals until the final whistle. As the group stage unfolds, Arsenal looks poised to continue its impressive form and make a significant impact in this season’s tournament.