Fri Sep 20 07:45:35 UTC 2024: ## Arsenal Held to a Draw in Champions League Opener Against Atalanta
Arsenal, in their Champions League debut for the 2024-25 season, were held to a goalless draw by Atalanta in Bergamo on Thursday. The game proved to be a tough encounter for the Gunners, who faced a formidable opponent known for their intense pressing style.
Arsenal’s star midfielder, Declan Rice, acknowledged the challenge posed by Atalanta, describing their play as “man-to-man all over the pitch.” He admitted that Arsenal had to adjust their game to cope with the relentless pressure, but praised their defensive solidity.
“It’s tough to win away in the Champions League. These are European champions,” Rice said after the match. “They follow you all over the pitch, it’s hard to adjust.”
Despite the draw, Rice emphasized that a point away from home is a good start, but that the ambition remains to win every game. He highlighted the difficult group stage ahead, with matches against PSG and Shakhtar Donetsk on the horizon.
Meanwhile, Atalanta’s manager, Gian Piero Gasperini, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, claiming they played on Arsenal’s level.
The draw sees Arsenal enter their Champions League campaign with a point, while Atalanta continues their good form with a third draw in their first four Serie A matches.
First Piper 