Arsenal have all but secured their spot in the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League with a commanding 3-0 victory over Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday night.
The result was a disappointing start for Fabio Cannavaro in his new role as head coach of the Croatian side.
Declan Rice was the star of the show at the Emirates Stadium, not only contributing with a crucial goal but also nearly adding another to his tally.
His performance was pivotal in Arsenal’s convincing win, which has significantly bolstered their position in the group stages.
Post-match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta heaped praise on Rice, stating, “His intent, his purpose, especially attacking the positions he is taking and how he’s driving with the ball. There is another bite to his game and today he could have scored two goals.”
Arteta emphasized Rice’s recent performances, noting, “In the last few weeks, he had some big, big open chances to score to affect the game, so overall, I’m very happy because we need to affect the game from those positions and he’s certainly capable of doing that.”
On Rice’s fitness and workload, Arteta added, “He had another niggle and then the demands of the game. He’s played so much football in the last two years, and as well, on top of that, we have moved him from one position to another.
“So, all the factors, but the good thing with Declan is he’s so consistent, so reliable. He’s always there, and when he can create those sparks, those moments, in the opposition’s box, it’s a great thing to have.”
Regarding managing Rice’s load, Arteta concluded, “He needs that like the others. Sometimes it’s related to freshening up, and sometimes related to saying we need another level and if not, somebody else is going to be there.
“So everybody has to be on their toes. He’s not different to that and you can see that when he’s fresher and he’s in the condition that he is, he’s a big player for us.”
The match itself saw Arsenal dominate early, with Gabriel Martinelli’s quick work down the left wing leading to Rice’s goal just 105 seconds in.
Despite a resilient effort from Dinamo Zagreb, especially in defense, Arsenal managed to extend their lead through Kai Havertz in the 66th minute, followed by a late third from Martin Odegaard in added time, ensuring Arsenal’s victory was as comprehensive as it was convincing.
This result leaves Arsenal well-positioned to advance in the Champions League, while Dinamo Zagreb faces an uphill battle to salvage anything from the group stage with their campaign on English soil remaining winless.
