Gabriel Martinelli’s early goal helped Arsenal maintain their perfect start to the league phase of the Champions League as they overcame Olympiacos.
Having beaten Athletic Club in their first game of the competition thanks to a goal and an assist from the Brazilian forward, he was again crucial for the Gunners.
Striker Viktor Gyokeres powered his way through the Greek side’s defence, but when his shot bounced off the post after being saved by Konstantinos Tzolakis, Martinelli was on hand to tap in the rebound.
Substitute Bukayo Saka sealed the success in added time with a shot that squeezed through the legs of Tzolakis.
Mikel Arteta had made six changes from the side that dramatically beat Newcastle United on Sunday as the Arsenal manager utilised his new squad depth thanks to a £250m summer spend that brought in eight new players.
This has played a huge part in a solid start to this season and Arteta will be glad of the opportunity to protect key players such as Declan Rice and Saka in their busy schedule.
Olympiacos did threaten after Martinelli’s 12th-minute opener as Daniel Podence forced David Raya into an excellent save from a superb volley from inside the area which the keeper pushed over the crossbar.
Francisco Chiquinho also had a goal ruled out for offside as the visitors pushed for an equaliser.
But Arsenal had chances at the other end too, with Martin Odegaard denied by Tzolakis and brave defending.
And having set up that chance for his captain, it was Saka who ensured success just before the end.
