Champions League/ Arsenal falls short against resilient Inter Miami

Inter Milan secured their third win in four Champions League matches, defeating Arsenal 1-0 in a tightly contested game thanks to Hakan Calhanoglu’s decisive penalty. The Italian side’s effective defense saw them move up to fifth place in the group standings, while Arsenal, now in 12th, continues to struggle after back-to-back losses.

Despite Arsenal’s dominance in possession, their finishing woes proved costly. The Gunners appeared to settle after early defensive jitters, creating multiple chances and unsettling Inter’s backline with a series of dangerous crosses.

However, Arsenal’s momentum was abruptly halted when a handball from Mikel Merino resulted in a penalty for Inter. Calhanoglu converted from the spot just before halftime, marking the first goal Arsenal conceded in this season’s Champions League.

In the second half, Arsenal pushed hard for an equalizer, with Gabriel Martinelli hitting the side netting and William Saliba narrowly missing a chance from a corner.

Kai Havertz came closest, with one shot cleared off the line and another deflected wide, keeping Inter’s lead intact. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta introduced Ethan Nwaneri and Oleksandr Zinchenko late in the game to bolster the attack, but Inter’s disciplined defense held firm, frustrating the Gunners’ efforts.

Arsenal’s inability to capitalize on their dominance leaves them in a tough spot, searching for answers as they look to rebound in both league and Champions League action.