Analysis The numbers behind the result
Arsenal edge tight contest as Slavia rue missed chances
Arsenal's 2-1 victory over Slavia Praha was largely deserved but somewhat fortunate, with the hosts creating higher-quality chances. Slavia posted a 2.19 expected goals (xG) tally compared to Arsenal's 1.55, reflecting their dominance in dangerous areas — they took 12 shots inside the box to Arsenal's nine, though Arsenal were more clinical with their finishes.
The Gunners capitalised early through Noni Madueke's ninth-minute strike, assisted by Viktor Gyökeres, before Gyökeres himself doubled the lead in the 38th minute. Despite Arsenal's 56% possession, Slavia's 18 total shots and four corners kept the pressure on, culminating in Wiktor Nowak's 90th-minute consolation. David Raya's four saves proved crucial, while Slavia goalkeeper Nikita Domchak made three stops.
The decisive stat was Arsenal's superior shot conversion rate — they scored twice from five shots on target, while Slavia managed just one goal from six on target, reflecting Arsenal's efficiency in key moments.