Arsenal held on to a narrow win in their first Europa League game after a couple of years out of continental action.
The Gunners beat FC Zürich 2-1 thanks to goals from Marquinhos and Eddie Nketiah. The English striker set up the Brazilian for his first goal, while they essentially switched roles for his second. Zürich managed to make things interesting when Mirland Kryeziu converted from the penalty spot.
Manager Mikel Arteta handed out full debuts to the aforementioned Marquinhos, Fabio Vieira and USMNT number one Matt Turner. The Gunners dominated both possession (72%) and total shooting (18), but outscored the hosts where it matters most.
However, fellow Premier League side Manchester United did not get off to a good start in their first European game. United suffered a surprise 1-0 loss to Real Sociedad at Old Trafford. The only goal of the match came from a highly controversial penalty in the second half.
Replays showed Sociedad’s shot came off the arm of Red Devils defender Lisandro Martinez. However, the ball clearly bounced off his knee first. However, VAR agreed with the original decision.
The VAR described it as a penalty for Real Sociedad.
Do you agree with the decision? ???? pic.twitter.com/qQ6WjST0SI
– CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) September 8, 2022
Sociedad achieved its first victory against English rivals in the history of the club in European competition.
Other results in the opening of the Europa League on Thursday
Italian giants Roma suffered a shock defeat en route to Ludogorets. The Bulgarian club took all three points thanks to a late goal from substitute Nonato. The Brazilian scored the winning goal just two minutes after the Italians equalised. Despite having 56% possession and 10 more shots than the home team, the Italians couldn’t take a point.
Roma’s counterpart, Lazio, scored a great victory against Feyenoord thanks to three goals in the first half. The Serie A club added a fourth before the Dutch giants scored twice in the final 20 minutes of the game. Luis Alberto, Felipe Anderson and Matias Vecino appeared on the scoreboard for the Italian capital, the latter with a brace.
Real Betis also earned a solid away win against HJK in Finland to continue their good form. Willian Jose scored a brace of his own in the match. Unfortunately, a major injury makes headlines. Winger Juanmi had to be carried off the artificial grass pitch in carriages after suffering an apparent ankle injury a few minutes into the match. The 29-year-old former Southampton player reportedly had to be taken to a nearby hospital due to the incident.
PHOTO: Imago
