Sánchez strike ensures Arsenal deny Paris
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
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Alexis Sánchez's blistering 78th-minute finish was enough to earn Arsenal a 1-1 draw at Paris Saint-Germain despite Edinson Cavani's opening goal in the 44th second.
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Alexis Sánchez's 78th minute goal ensured Arsenal came away from Paris Saint-Germain with a Group A point.
Just 44 seconds had elapsed when Edinson Cavani glanced in Serge Aurier's cross for Paris's fastest-ever UEFA Champions League goal, the second season running the club had got the first of the group stage. Cavani then came close and in the second half David Ospina's heroics ensured Sánchez's blistering finish was enough to give Arsenal a point. Olivier Giroud and Marco Verratti were sent off in added time.
Key player: David Ospina (Arsenal)
A surprise choice to wear the gloves in place of Petr Čech, Ospina began the game under a bit of a cloud. Arsenal fans recalled how he was preferred to Čech against Dinamo Zagreb and Olympiacos at the start of last season's UEFA Champions League, when he came in for intense criticism after a high-profile error and two defeats. This time, the Colombian kept his team in the game, providing vital stops from Ángel Di María, Edinson Cavani and Serge Aurier to make the final result possible.
Classic Cavani
This game brought us a perfect encapsulation of Cavani's Paris career so far, the Uruguay striker spurning at least three fabulous chances after showing instinct, poise and an unerring touch to head in the opener. Although Cavani still divides opinion, he is always capable of making the difference – and would have done here tonight had those misses not come back to haunt him as Alexis Sánchez equalised.
Wenger takes a risk
There were a few raised eyebrows when the team line-ups were first handed out, with Arsène Wenger opting not just to select Ospina in goal but also Alexis up front, youngster Alex Iwobi on the right and Olivier Giroud on the bench. The decision to overlook Giroud left the Gunners without a proper focal point and kept Alexis away from the areas where he wreaks most havoc – and it was no coincidence that the Chilean scored after Giroud had been introduced.
Reporter's view
Chris Burke, Paris reporter (@UEFAcomChrisB)
Feeling the pressure after recent Ligue 1 struggles, Paris coach Unai Emery looked set for a morale-boosting win to remind everyone of his European nous. Instead, the hosts were guilty of repeatedly missing the opportunity of putting this game to bed, with the scoreline scarcely reflective of their clear domination. They will draw confidence from their performance, though, and that could prove almost as precious if they can build on it.
