Arsenal and Arsene Wenger started their Europa League campaign with a superb victory over Koln but it would not have counted had they failed to get a result at Bate Borisov. They, however, made it, thanks to goals from Olivier Giroud, Theo Walcott and Rob Holding which ensured a powerful victory for the Gunners. Here is how they’ve been rated:
GK: David Ospina – 6/10
Not at fault for the goals that he conceded but he made saves worthy enough to keep his side in the lead.
CB: Shkodran Mustafi – 6/10
He looked a bit rusty but Bate Borisov never really threatened to take advantage of him. He also lost his players on more than one occasion.
CB: Per Mertesacker – 6.5/10
Tidy but should have done better for the second goal of Borisov.
CB: Rob Holding – 6/10
Had to be alert and defend properly for most of the game. Looked a threat from set pieces all night.
RWB: Reiss Nelson – 6/10
Nelson was really effective and helpful today. His ball playing ability came to the fore as he was comfortable and useful in possession consistently.
LWB: Ainsley Maitland – 6.5/10
Not his usual position of course but he did justice to it. He had a great day and looked genuinely exciting at both ends of the field.
CM: Chris Willock – 6/10
Maintained his presence in the midfield and impressed. Good game!
CM: Mohamed Eleny – 7/10
Elneny has had a great start to the season and seems to be enjoying his time a lot. His presence was vital and he stepped up today to make it count.
RAM: Theo Walcott – 8/10
Theo was impressive today and he took both his chances well. He acted more as a second striker and delivered.
LAM: Jack Wilshere – 8.5/10
It was really refreshing to see that Wilshere hasn’t lost the things he was once known for. He dictated the play fluently and his composure, as well as an end product, were superbly refined.
ST: Olivier Giroud – 8/10
His hold-up play was very neat and so were his linkups. He got his 100th goal as well! Good performance.
Substitutes:-
CM: Marcus Mcguane – N/A
Came on very late to make a difference
FW: Edward Nketiah – N/A
Same as Marcus as he came on with the minutes just touching ninety.
