Synopsis
On March 5, Arsenal achieved a remarkable 7-1 victory over PSV in Eindhoven during their UEFA Champions League last-16 first leg. This win marks Arsenal's largest away triumph in European history, setting a record for the most goals scored in a knockout match.Key Takeaways
- Arsenal becomes the first team to score 7 goals away in knockout stage.
- Largest away win in Arsenal's European history.
- PSV's heaviest loss matches club record from 1958.
- Arsenal's win almost guarantees progression to quarterfinals.
- PSV struggles in the current season, trailing Ajax in the league.
The Hague, March 5 (NationPress) Arsenal showcased an unforgettable performance on Wednesday (IST), overpowering PSV with a score of 7-1 in Eindhoven during the first leg of their UEFA Champions League last-16 clash, thereby becoming the first squad to net seven goals away from home in a knockout stage match of this prestigious tournament.
This remarkable outcome marks the Gunners' largest away victory in their European Cup and Champions League journey, eclipsing the renowned 5-1 triumph against Inter Milan at the San Siro in 2003, in addition to surpassing the significant win over Sporting Lisbon last November, which were previously their top performances in Europe’s elite club competition.
In terms of all European contests, Arsenal's triumph in the Netherlands ranks as their third-largest away win in history, with the 7-0 demolition of Standard Liege in the 1993/94 UEFA Cup Winner’s Cup still standing as their highest achievement, making it the most significant victory in any competition.
This loss represents PSV's most substantial defeat in European competition, matching their heaviest loss ever in professional football, equaling a 7-1 defeat to GVAV in the Eredivisie back in 1958.
Arsenal initially had a goal from Declan Rice ruled out for offside, while PSV’s Ismael Saibari hit the crossbar before the visitors broke through. Dutch star Jurrien Timber opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a header from Rice's cross.
The lead was doubled by 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri with a fierce shot following a pass from Myles Lewis-Skelly. Spanish international Mikel Merino took advantage of a defensive lapse to extend the lead to 3-0 after just 30 minutes.
PSV was granted a chance just before halftime when referee Jesus Gil Manzano awarded a penalty after Thomas Partey fouled Luuk de Jong. Noa Lang converted the penalty, giving PSV a flicker of hope.
However, Arsenal swiftly extinguished PSV's aspirations in the second half, with Martin Odegaard scoring a stunning solo goal to make it 4-1, followed by Leandro Trossard adding a fifth. Odegaard netted again before substitute Riccardo Calafiori sealed the rout in the 85th minute.
This decisive win nearly assures Arsenal a spot in the quarterfinals, where they are poised to meet the winner of the tie between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
For the reigning Dutch champions, PSV, this heavy defeat compounds a tough season, with the club trailing Eredivisie leaders Ajax by eight points and already out of the Dutch Cup.
