Arsenal Secure Champions League Last 16 Spot With Comfortable 2-1 Victory In Spain Over Girona

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal secure a third place finish in the Champions League league phase thanks to a 2-1 victory over Girona in Spain. Catch the Girona vs Arsenal highlights and report HERE.

Arsenal March On To Champions League Last 16 With 2-1 Victory Against Girona

Although Arsenal were the pre-match favourites with the best UK football betting sites, it was the hosts who took the lead just before the half-hour mark as former Spurs, Bournemouth and Everton man Danjuma gave Girona the lead.

The Gunners we’re behind for long though, with Jorginho equalising from the penalty spot ten minutes later.

With the wind now in their sales, Arsenal went in search of another goal before half-time when in the 42nd minute, Ethan Nwaneri found the back of the net to give Arsenal the lead for the first time of the night in Spain.

Although Mikel Arteta’s side were ahead at the break, it was still all to play for in the second half with Girona looking to end their Champions League campaign on a high, despite not being able to qualify for the knockout stages.

HT: Girona 1-2 Arsenal

The hosts made five substitutions in 11 minutes in the second half, which seemingly paid off in the 77th minute.

Just as it looked like the Gunners were easing their way to a fairly routine 2-1 victory, Girona equalised through Cristhian Stuani, well at least they thought they did.

The former Middlesbrough striker was deemed to have been in an offside position, much to the relief of Mikel Arteta and Arsenal fans. Although the result of this game had no real baring on either side, winning and keeping momentum is always important.

The Gunners did indeed hang on to win 2-1, taking their total Champions League league phase points tally to 19. A third place finish means Arsenal are already in the hat for the last 16 draw, and await confirmation as to who their opponents will be in a few weeks time.

WATCH: Girona 1-2 Arsenal Highlights

Next up for the Gunners is an absolutely huge clash with Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday.

Mikel Arteta’s side welcome Pep Guardiola and co to The Emirates, looking to keep up the pressure on league leaders Liverpool who remain in the driving seat in the Premier League. Winning is simply a must for Arsenal on Super Sunday.