David Raya’s incredible goalkeeping saved Arsenal from defeat, as they fought to a goalless draw against Atalanta in their Champions League opener on Thursday. In a fiery atmosphere at the revamped Gewiss Stadium, Mikel Arteta’s men struggled to find their rhythm, but Raya’s heroics kept them alive.
In what could have easily turned into a loss, Raya pulled off a jaw-dropping double save early in the second half. First, he denied Mateo Retegui’s penalty, and then, miraculously, stopped the rebound attempt, keeping Arsenal level in what was otherwise a lackluster performance.
The Gunners, missing star man Martin Odegaard due to a serious ankle injury, lacked creativity in attack and after an early flurry of pressure, never truly looked like a threat.
With a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City looming on Sunday, Arsenal will need to show much more than they did in Italy if they want to maintain their title hopes.
Atalanta, fresh off winning the Europa League, looked the better side in a match with few clear chances. They’ll be pleased with their display, especially as this was their first time back in the Champions League since a disappointing group-stage exit in 2021.
Arsenal’s best opportunity came in the 13th minute when Marco Carnesecchi made a sensational double save, first tipping away Bukayo Saka’s powerful free-kick before denying Thomas Partey’s follow-up.
Initially, Arsenal’s press forced Atalanta into mistakes, but the Italian side grew into the game and started dictating the tempo. Their best chance came just after the break when Ederson was brought down in the box by Partey, only for Raya to steal the spotlight with his penalty heroics.
The result leaves Arsenal with work to do as they continue their Champions League journey. They’ll need more than Raya’s brilliance to go the distance this season.
