Arsenal extended their outstanding European run by defeating Kairat Almaty, securing eight victories from eight matches in the Champions League league phase. The London side had already ensured a top-two finish after beating Inter Milan 3-1 the previous week, guaranteeing home second-leg matches in the knockout rounds.
The breakthrough arrived almost immediately. In two minutes, Kai Havertz released Viktor Gyokeres with a precise pass, allowing the striker to drive a low effort beyond the goalkeeper.
Kairat responded quickly despite sitting bottom of the standings with a single point. Three minutes after conceding, they equalised when Jorginho converted a penalty following a foul decision against Riccardo Calafiori.
Havertz’s return provides major boost for Arteta
Arsenal soon regained authority over the match. Havertz, making his first start for the club since 5 February last year, restored the lead with a powerful strike using his left foot.
The German international’s return was a key positive for Mikel Arteta. Prior to this match, Havertz had played only 59 senior minutes since recovering from a knee injury suffered on the opening day of the campaign.
Arteta deployed Havertz in midfield behind Gyokeres, offering a glimpse of how the two could operate together when fully fit. The match also served as an opportunity for the manager to rotate heavily, making 11 changes to his lineup.
Late goals confirm dominance and historic milestone
Gyokeres had chances to extend the margin but failed to convert. However, while trying to reach a low cross from Havertz, he redirected the ball into Gabriel Martinelli’s path, allowing the Brazilian to score from close range.
Gabriel Jesus later believed he had added another goal, but the effort was disallowed for offside. Kairat managed a late consolation through Ricardinho, who scored with a header.
The result confirmed Arsenal finished top of the league phase. They also became only the second English club to record eight or more consecutive Champions League victories, following Manchester City’s run of 10 straight wins between May 2023 and March 2024.
