Fri Sep 20 08:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Arsenal Hold Atalanta in Champions League Opener Thanks to Raya’s Heroics
Arsenal kicked off their Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Atalanta in Bergamo. The Gunners struggled to create clear-cut chances but were able to secure a point thanks to a stunning performance from goalkeeper David Raya.
Raya, who was considered the best goalkeeper in England last season, demonstrated his penalty-saving prowess once again. He made a double save to deny Atalanta’s Mateo Retegui from the spot after the Italian side was awarded a penalty. The first save was a good guess, but the second was a spectacular reaction save with almost no time to think.
“I was lucky to go the right way,” said Raya, who was quick to credit luck for the save. “It’s just a penalty. It’s great to keep the clean sheet and help the team get a point.”
The draw means Arsenal will need to improve their attacking play in the coming Champions League fixtures. The team faces a crucial match against Manchester City in the Premier League at the weekend, and fans will be hoping for a much stronger performance from the Gunners.
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