Arsenal made up for their blunders against PSG with a thumping win against FC Basel in their last group stage match of the Champions League, which helped the Gunners qualify for the first position. Special mention, however, should be of PSG as they were held at home to Ludogorets and allowed the Gunners to top the group.
Tuesday night saw one of the perfect Arsenal performances. Here are the player ratings.
David Ospina (8/10) – He has been brilliant in Arsenal’s UCL campaign so far and he continued his form. Although he had nothing much to do most of the time, his collection from the set pieces and decent saves at times were crucial.
Gabriel (8.5/10) – He is playing out of his position and he looked solid. What more could you ask from him?
Rob Holding (8/10) – Given that it was his first Champions League game, he can’t be criticised much despite his mistakes. He has shown immense maturity as compared to his age and playing alongside Koscielny will only make him better.
Koscielny (8.5/10) – He had 99% passing accuracy last night and Holding’s positive start on the biggest stage is largely due to his guidance. He is undoubtedly Arsenal’s best defender in the past few years and a great tutor for Mustafi, Gabriel and Holding.
Gibbs (8.5/10)- His decision to stay at the club and fight for his place after falling down in the pecking order to Monreal is reaping fruits now. He had two assists last night and was simply ripping apart the left defensive flank at times.
Xhaka (8.5/10) – He is slowly starting to impose his dominance in Arsenal’s midfield. Against his former club, he looked devastating; breaking down attacks and providing long passes for the counter. He could play a crucial role for Arsenal’s long season.
Ramsey (7.5/10) – Slowly getting back his touch. Wenger did well to play him in the central role in the last few matches to boost his confidence and he looked good against Basel Tuesday night.
Alex Iwobi (8/10) – He got a goal. Words can’t describe how important that was to him after his own goal against PSG last game.
Alexis Sanchez (8.5/10) – Unfortunate to hit the cross bar from that gem of a free-kick. He is oozing confidence at the moment and Arsenal need to make the most of it.
Mesut Ozil (8.5/10) – He was his usual self. Created chances often and for a change got an assist instead of a goal.
Lucas Perez (9.5/10) – What an impact player he is for Arsenal. He bagged a hat-trick and although two goals were just tap-ins, the third goal brought out the clinical striker in him.
