Arsenal count on Odegaard’s revival to dominate Napoli

Arsenal opened their Champions League campaign against Napoli at the Maradona Stadium, dominating the first half before Martin Odegaard delivered a stunning left‑foot strike fifteen minutes from time to clinch a 1‑0 victory. The 27‑year‑old Norwegian, now described as being in the form of his life, gave the Gunners the decisive edge.

Arsenal controlled the opening exchanges, pressing high and limiting Napoli’s possession. The Italian side deployed a defensive shield reminiscent of Max Allegri’s tactics, yet the Gunners’ composure forced Napoli onto the back foot throughout the first half.

Odegaard’s match‑winning strike

In the second half, Odegaard’s perfectly timed run into the box allowed him to step past Kai Havertz’s dummy and unleash a left‑foot strike that left Napoli keeper Alex Meret with no chance, securing the 1‑0 win. The match‑winner earned him an eight‑point rating in the post‑match analysis and underscored his resurgence.

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Revival and praise fuel optimism

Last season the 27‑year‑old was limited to 36 games, scoring one goal with seven assists and featuring in 24 Premier League matches as Arsenal lifted the crown. Since then he has netted in the Community Shield 3‑0 win over Manchester City, the 3‑0 victory against Coventry City and the 2‑1 comeback over Chelsea, signalling a return to peak form. Chief football writer Published 36 minutes ago noted the transformation, while former defender Nedum Onuoha said, “He will want to have a bigger impact on the team this season” and added, “They have got unfinished business in the Champions League.” Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta echoed the sentiment, stating, “This what we need. Players with that mindset to decide the game, to play with that personality and keep taking risks.”

Looking ahead, Arsenal face a home tie with Real Madrid and a visit to Bayern Munich, fixtures that will test the side’s newfound confidence. The Gunners were only one game away from a dream double of the Premier League and Champions League last season, falling to Paris Saint‑Germain on penalties in the final.

The victory, captured in a VIDEO that cannot be played without enabling JavaScript, illustrates how Arsenal, with Odegaard at the helm, can overcome every test. Il Napoli struggled to find a response, while Al supporters celebrated a performance that suggests the team is ready to build on last term’s achievements.