Arsenal began their 2025–26 UEFA Champions League journey emphatically, overcoming Athletic Bilbao 2-0 at the iconic Estadio de San Mamés on Tuesday evening.
The North London side’s improved second-half display proved the difference as substitute goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard sealed a vital away victory in group stage action.
The opening 45 minutes presented a tactical chess match between two well-organised sides, with neither able to break the deadlock despite Arsenal creating the better chances.
Viktor Gyökeres came close with a header from a Declan Rice free-kick that sailed just wide, while Noni Madueke’s clever cut-back was expertly saved by Athletic goalkeeper Unai Simón.
However, it was Arsenal’s bench strength that ultimately proved decisive. Manager Mikel Arteta’s tactical substitutions transformed the game’s complexion, with Martinelli making an immediate impact just 36 seconds after entering the fray. The Brazilian winger collected a deft flick from Trossard, surged down the pitch, and coolly slotted home from inside the penalty area to break the deadlock in the 72nd minute.
The roles reversed 15 minutes later when Martinelli turned provider. The former Ituano FC star’s pace proved too much for Athletic right-back Andoni Gorosabel, allowing him to cut back a pass for Trossard. The Belgian’s effort took a deflection before striking the post and nestling into the net, sealing a comprehensive victory for the visitors.
Athletic Bilbao will rue their first-half opportunities, having created several promising moments that ultimately came to nothing. The Basque side’s struggles in the final third were highlighted by their modest expected goals tally of 0.41, compared to Arsenal’s 1.10 xG following their dominant second-half showing.
The result provides Arsenal with the perfect platform to build upon as they target a strong Champions League campaign. For Athletic, despite the disappointment, there was plenty to admire in their defensive resilience for large periods of the contest.
Both sides now turn their attention to crucial domestic fixtures this weekend. Athletic face a challenging trip to Mestalla Stadium to take on Valencia CF, while Arsenal prepare for a blockbuster Premier League encounter against Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium – a fixture that could prove pivotal in the early title race dynamics.
The victory marks an encouraging start to Arsenal’s European campaign and demonstrates the squad depth that could prove crucial across multiple competitions this season.
