Arsenal survive late scare to complete perfect Champions League run

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Arsenal extended their flawless start to the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League campaign with a dramatic 3–2 victory over Kairat Almaty on Wednesday night, maintaining a 100 per cent winning record in the league phase of Europe’s premier club competition.

The Gunners, who have now won every match they have played in this season’s Champions League, secured the narrow win at the Emirates thanks to a resilient performance that saw them take the lead early, lose it, and then rally back to claim all three points.

Viktor Gyökeres opened the scoring inside the opening minutes, finishing with aplomb from the edge of the box to put Arsenal ahead.

However, Kairat responded through a penalty converted by Jorginho, levelling the score just after the quarter hour, before Kai Havertz restored Arsenal’s lead with a composed strike to make it 2–1.

Arsenal’s dominance in possession and attacking intent went to plan despite several chances going begging in the opening stages.

In the second half, Gabriel Jesus extended Arsenal’s advantage to 3–1, tapping in from close range after sustained pressure.

But late drama ensued when Ricardinho headed home in stoppage time to make it 3–2, setting up a nervy finale before referee’s final whistle.

The result preserves Arsenal’s perfect record through eight Champions League matches  and qualified for the next stage automatically and avoiding playoff.

Manager Mikel Arteta’s side have been widely lauded for their blend of tactical discipline and attacking flair this season, continuing a strong European run that included six straight victories in the group stage and a 3–0 victory over Club Brugge that virtually sealed their last-16 place.