Fri Sep 20 01:08:13 UTC 2024: ## Arsenal Survive Penalty Scare, Draw 0-0 with Atalanta in Champions League Opener

Arsenal’s start to their 2024-25 UEFA Champions League campaign was far from convincing, as they scraped a 0-0 draw against 2023-24 Europa League winners Atalanta in Italy on Thursday.

The Gunners were gifted a chance to concede early in the game when Thomas Partey fouled Ederson in the penalty area, handing Atalanta a golden opportunity to take the lead. However, new signing David Raya stepped up with a crucial penalty save, denying Retegui from the spot and then somehow blocking the rebound in a sensational display of athleticism.

Raya’s heroics were crucial, as Arsenal struggled to create chances throughout the match. They managed only six shots, their lowest return in a Champions League away game since September 2014, and looked lacking in creativity in the final third.

Despite the underwhelming performance, Arsenal held on to a point in a match that could have easily ended in defeat. The draw highlights the need for Arteta’s side to improve their attacking output if they are to achieve their Champions League ambitions this season.

For a more detailed breakdown of the match, including individual player stats, expected goals data, passing networks, and more, visit the Opta match centre.

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