Athletic Club 0-2 Arsenal: Post-match review, Stats, Key moments

Dive into Bwin’s post-match review of Athletic Club 0-2 Arsenal in the Champions League on Tuesday, 16 September 2025, with stats, key moments and our take on the match.

Arsenal's commanding 2-0 victory over Athletic Club at San Mamés was a testament to their superior form and tactical execution. The Gunners, who now sit at second in the league with three points, showcased their dominance from the outset, with goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard sealing the win. Athletic Club, languishing at 36th with zero points, struggled to find any rhythm, and the result was not surprising given their recent form. This loss marks another setback for Athletic Club, who failed to extend their run and now face an uphill battle in the competition.

Key moments in the match highlighted Arsenal's control and Athletic Club's inability to respond effectively. Declan Rice's early yellow card did not deter Arsenal, as they continued to press forward. The introduction of substitutes like Trossard and Martinelli proved pivotal, with both players scoring crucial goals in the second half. Athletic Club's multiple substitutions in the latter stages of the game were too little, too late, as they failed to break through Arsenal's solid defence.

The statistics from the match clearly reflect Arsenal's dominance, with 62% possession compared to Athletic Club's 38%. Both teams had an equal number of corners at two each, but Arsenal's higher successful dribble percentage (50% vs. 36%) underscores their greater control on the ball. The three yellow cards received by Arsenal players indicate a more aggressive approach, yet it did not hinder their performance. The disparity in assists, with Arsenal recording two and Athletic Club none, further emphasises the Gunners' superior attacking play and aligns perfectly with the final scoreline.

Arsenal's early control was evident when Declan Rice received a yellow card in the 7th minute, yet it did not disrupt their momentum. The game's turning point came with the introduction of Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli as substitutes, with Martinelli scoring in the 72nd minute and Trossard adding another in the 87th. These goals effectively sealed the match, showcasing Arsenal's depth and tactical acumen. Athletic Club's response was limited to late substitutions and a yellow card for Mikel Jauregizar in the 85th minute, which did little to change the outcome.

Athletic Club lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Unai Simón in goal and Iñaki Williams leading the attack. The team made five substitutions throughout the match, with Unai Gómez, Yuri Berchiche, Gorka Guruzeta, Alejandro Rego, and Nicolás Serrano coming on in the second half. Despite these changes, no player managed to significantly impact the game, and the team's performance remained lackluster. The lineup offered no surprises, but the inability to adapt effectively to Arsenal's tactics was evident.

Arsenal deployed a 4-3-3 formation, with David Raya between the posts and a strong midfield trio of Mikel Merino, Martín Zubimendi, and Declan Rice. The impact of substitutes Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli was crucial, with both scoring after coming on in the second half. The lineup was well-balanced, and the tactical decision to bring on fresh legs paid dividends. No surprises in the starting XI, but the effectiveness of the substitutions highlighted Arsenal's depth and strategic flexibility.

Declan Rice earns Bwin’s Man of the Match for his pivotal role in Arsenal's victory. Despite not scoring or assisting, Rice's contribution was significant, with one big chance created and three key passes. His presence in midfield was instrumental in maintaining Arsenal's control and setting up the attacks that led to the goals. Rice's performance exemplifies the importance of a midfielder's influence beyond direct goal involvement.

• Loss: 0-2 vs Arsenal (H)

• Win: 2-0 vs Athletic Club (A)

Sitting at 36th with zero points, Athletic Club face Valencia in league action on September 20, 2025. This loss to Arsenal will likely force them to reassess their approach, focusing on strengthening their defense and finding more creativity in attack to avoid further setbacks.

With a strong position at 2nd and three points, Arsenal will take on Manchester City on September 21, 2025 in Premier League duty. The confidence gained from this victory over Athletic Club should bolster their approach, as they look to maintain their momentum and challenge for the top spot domestically.

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