An emotional Emirates stadium, which will probably bid farewell to its legendary manager soon enough, welcomed David Moyes and West Ham before a high-voltage semifinal showdown against Atletico Madrid. Arsene Wenger’s boys took the lead first through Nacho Monreal and they had to wait until after the halftime to lead. Arnautovic equalised but a goal from Aaron Ramsey and a brace from Lacazette ensured that the gunners win with high spirits and remain motivated.
Here’s how they’ve been rated.
David Ospina – 6/10
Got involved only in the first half as he had to stretch and deny a predictable effort from Arnautovic. He was not really bothered after that and had a comfortable afternoon although he would wish he had more to do to pitch for semi-final start in the Europa League.
Hector Bellerin – 5/10
He was tidy and doing decently until he made an error for West Ham’s equaliser. Welbeck failed to capitalise on his cross in the first half.
Shkodran Mustafi – 6/10
Not a really impressive afternoon but it was acceptable. Made a solid tackle on Arnautovic early on as well.
Laurent Koscielny – 6.5/10
Looked quite in control till the equaliser so Arsenal would hope he remains focused and determines as Atletico come calling.
Nacho Monreal – 7/10
He has been one of Arsenal’s most consistent players this season and he proved it again today. Got forward really well on occasions and took his goal nicely. Defensively he was a brick!
Mohamed Elneny – 5/10
Subbed off after suffering an injury. Sad for him because he was doing okay before the incident.
Granit Xhaka – 7/10
Got booked as usual for being reckless but his football apart from what looked to be satisfying today. He started off numerous attacks with smart passes and connections and held his position well whenever he needed to.
Aaron Ramsey – 7/10
Finishing was a bit bad today and he wasn’t really getting into smart positions like he usually would but he got the finish luckily for the crucial goal and helped Arsenal pull through.
Alex Iwobi – 2.5/10
Dismal performance and looked totally out of touch.
Danny Welbeck – 7/10
Work rate was impressive as usual and so was his perseverance. Had a goal denied due to an excellent save from Hart and he missed a couple of decent chances as well.
Alexandre Lacazette – 8/10
Had to wait a lot until two chances came along which he did justice to with his finishing but until then he looked to be a frustrated figure. Anyway, he will be really happy to get on the scoresheet convincingly.
Substitutes
Ainsley Maitland-Niles – 6.5/10
Remained solid and raised a few eyebrows with a good performance.
