David Raya was the standout performer for Arsenal in their Champions League opener against Atalanta on Thursday, as his heroic goalkeeping display helped Mikel Arteta’s side escape with a goalless draw. In a match where clear-cut chances were few and far between, Raya’s crucial double save from Mateo Retegui’s penalty and subsequent rebound became the defining moment of a hard-fought encounter at the Gewiss Stadium.
Arsenal arrived in Bergamo with high expectations but were missing a key figure in Martin Odegaard, the team’s captain and creative force, who was sidelined with an ankle injury sustained during international duty with Norway. Odegaard’s absence was felt as the Gunners struggled to find fluidity in their attack, despite a strong start to the game.
A Bright Start Fizzles Out
The Premier League side began the match with intensity, pressing Atalanta into early mistakes and controlling the tempo. Arsenal’s pressing game was particularly effective in the opening stages, with Atalanta unable to build their usual rhythm. Mikel Arteta’s men looked dangerous on the attack, particularly through Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, and nearly took the lead in the 13th minute.
Saka won a free-kick in a dangerous position and delivered a well-struck shot on goal, only for Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi to produce a brilliant fingertip save. Carnesecchi wasn’t done yet, quickly reacting to deny Thomas Partey’s close-range effort from the rebound. It was a promising moment for Arsenal, who seemed to be in control.
However, despite their early dominance, Arsenal’s creativity waned as the half wore on. Without Odegaard pulling the strings in midfield, they lacked the cutting edge needed to break down Atalanta’s well-organized defense. The Italian side slowly grew into the game and began to test Arsenal’s backline, though they themselves found it difficult to create clear chances.
Atalanta’s Improvement and Raya’s Heroics
As the second half began, Atalanta continued to grow in confidence and eventually earned a golden opportunity to break the deadlock. Just two minutes after the restart, Ederson was clumsily brought down by Thomas Partey in the penalty area, and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot.
Mateo Retegui stepped up to take the penalty, but David Raya had other ideas. The Spanish goalkeeper guessed the right way, diving to his left to make a crucial save. The ball rebounded straight back to Retegui, who quickly attempted to nod it home, but Raya pulled off an incredible reflex save to claw the ball off the line and keep the score level.
It was a moment of brilliance from Raya, who showed why Arteta has entrusted him with the starting goalkeeper role ahead of Aaron Ramsdale in recent games. His double save not only prevented Atalanta from taking the lead but also lifted Arsenal’s spirits at a time when the match was hanging in the balance.
A Lack of Attacking Threat from Arsenal
While Raya’s heroics gave Arsenal the chance to stay in the game, the Gunners continued to struggle in the attacking third. They lacked the incisiveness and creativity that Odegaard typically provides, with Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard unable to fashion meaningful opportunities.
Bukayo Saka and Thomas Partey were among Arsenal’s more lively players, but the team as a whole lacked cohesion in their forward play. Arteta’s side seemed content to focus on defensive solidity, with the likes of Declan Rice and William Saliba ensuring that Atalanta did not create too many dangerous chances.
Atalanta, playing in their first Champions League match since 2021, showed their intent to take the game to Arsenal. Despite lacking clear chances, they came closest to scoring after Raya’s double save. Substitute Juan Cuadrado twice unleashed powerful long-range efforts, one sailing just over the bar and the other flashing inches wide. However, Arsenal held firm and saw out the draw.
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Positives and Concerns for Arsenal
While the result will be viewed as a positive for Atalanta, Arsenal will have mixed feelings. On the one hand, they managed to secure a point in a difficult away fixture, with their defense and goalkeeping standing up to the challenge. David Raya’s performance, in particular, will give Arsenal fans confidence that they have a reliable shot-stopper who can make game-changing saves in the biggest moments.
However, the lack of attacking threat is a concern. Without Odegaard, Arsenal lacked the creativity and sharpness to unlock Atalanta’s defense. Their inability to generate sustained pressure after the early exchanges showed a lack of cohesion in the final third. Arteta will need to address this ahead of their next Champions League fixture and especially before their Premier League showdown against Manchester City on Sunday.
Looking Ahead
For Atalanta, the draw marks a solid return to Champions League football after a two-year absence. They showed resilience and came close to winning, but will be satisfied with the point in a tight match.
For Arsenal, the focus will now shift to their domestic campaign. With a crucial match against Manchester City on the horizon, they will need to improve their offensive output if they hope to challenge the reigning Premier League champions. Raya’s heroics saved them in Italy, but Arsenal will need a more complete performance if they are to compete on multiple fronts this season.
