Marquinhos stars as Arsenal beat Zurich in Europa League

Mikel Arteta's side got off to a winning start in the Europa League after beating Zurich 1-2. The match, played in St Gallen due to an athletics event in Zurich, saw Marquinhos put Arsenal ahead in the 17th minute. However, Zurich levelled against the run of play through a Kryeziu penalty just before half-time, but Nketiah's 62nd minute goal gave Arsenal the points. 

Arsenal, who made seven changes from the 2-1 loss to Man Utd, started the game slowly and nearly fell behind after goalkeeper Turner passed the ball straight to Tosin Aiyegun and he struck the post with his effort. However, after the first 1'0 minutes, Arsenal took charge.

Martinelli nearly scored when he got his head to Nketiah's cross, but it went wide of the mark. Then. 19 year-old Marquinhos gave Arsenal the lead after 16 minutes. Nketiah made a run down the near touchline and he squared for Marquinhos to tap in from inside the box. It was an emotional moment for the Brazilian who started crying after scoring the goal.

Fabio Vieira could have made it two had his chip over goalkeeper Brecher not landed on the top of the net and the Gunners were dominant. Despite not having many opportunities themselves, Zurich were hardly able to get the ball in Arsenal's half either. However, disaster struck for Arteta's men just before half-time when Nketiah fouled Aliti in the box from behind and the referee pointed to the penalty spot. Kryeziu sent Turner the wrong way from the spot and it was all level at the break. 

 

September 8, 2022

After a minute's silence following the passing of the Queen, the second half got underway and Arsenal were the much better side. Tierney and Nketiah both tested Brecher and then, just after the hour mark, Arsenal went back in front. 

Marquinhos returned the favour from Nketiah and put in a beautiful ball for Nketiah and he headed in at the far post. It was the goal Arsenal needed and they were in control for the rest of the contest. Zurich hardly threatened going forward.

Jesus nearly added a third for Arsenal in the closing stages after Odegaard gave him the ball, but Brecher made a fine stop. Subsititute Santini was dangerous for Zurich at the other end and he came closest to an equaliser when he headed at Turner. Arsenal ended up getting a deserved win to start the competition in the best possible fashion.