Thu Sep 19 23:47:45 UTC 2024: ## Arsenal Held to Goalless Draw by Atalanta in Champions League Opener
**Bergamo, Italy** – Arsenal’s Champions League campaign got off to a frustrating start as they were held to a goalless draw by Atalanta in a tight and tactical encounter at the Gewiss Stadium. The game was notable for the heroics of Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, who made a crucial penalty save and then produced an audacious second stop to deny Atalanta a late winner.
Raya’s first save came in the 49th minute, when he guessed correctly to deny Mateo Retegui from the spot. The penalty was awarded after a VAR review deemed that Thomas Partey had fouled Atalanta’s Ederson in the box.
Just minutes later, Raya displayed remarkable reflexes to thwart Retegui again, this time with a stunning reaction save to claw away the rebound from a close-range shot.
Despite their defensive dominance, Arsenal struggled to create clear-cut chances going forward. The Gunners lacked their usual attacking fluency and were largely restricted to counter-attacks.
Mikel Arteta’s side will be pleased to have kept a clean sheet on the road, but they will need to find a way to be more potent in attack if they are to progress in the Champions League.
The draw leaves both sides with one point from their opening game. Arsenal will face their next Champions League test at home to PSV Eindhoven, while Atalanta travel to face Newcastle United.
First Piper 