UCL: Saka nets brace as Arsenal beat Monaco 3-0

Bukayo Saka delivered a standout performance, scoring twice as Arsenal defeated Monaco to solidify their position as strong contenders for the Champions League knockout stages.

The Gunners dominated the first half, creating numerous opportunities but failing to convert enough to put the game out of reach earlier.

Arsenal broke the deadlock in the 34th minute when Myles Lewis–Skelly set up Gabriel Jesus, whose pinpoint cross allowed Saka to slot home from close range.

In the second half, substitute Kai Havertz made an immediate impact. In the 74th minute, he pressured Monaco goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki into a mistake, enabling Saka to capitalize with another close-range finish. Saka continued to shine, providing a precise cross in the 88th minute for Havertz, who turned it into Arsenal’s third goal of the night.

Despite their eventual dominance, Arsenal were left to rue several missed opportunities earlier in the match.

Gabriel Jesus had two one-on-one chances thwarted by Majecki, while captain Martin Ødegaard failed to capitalize on a wayward Monaco pass, firing wide from a promising position.

Gabriel Martinelli also missed a golden opportunity, curling his shot wide when well-placed.

Monaco came close to punishing Arsenal’s profligacy early in the second half.

Thilo Kehrer narrowly missed with a header following a free-kick, while former Liverpool midfielder Takumi Minamino and striker Breel Embolo also threatened for the visitors.

Ultimately, Arsenal’s late surge ensured the missed chances were inconsequential.

The victory moved them up to third in the group with 13 points, placing Mikel Arteta’s side in a commanding position heading into their final two group-stage matches.

Next, Arsenal will host Dinamo Zagreb on January 22 before traveling to Girona a week later, with progression to the knockout rounds firmly within their grasp.