Europa League: Arsenal beats Olympiacos, Milan holds Manchester United
Arsenal struck two late goals to beat Olympiacos 3-1 and take control of its Europa League round of 16 clash, while Manchester United were held to a 1-1 draw by AC Milan at Old Trafford.
Mikel Arteta saw his side dumped out by Olympiacos at the round of 32 stage last season, despite winning the opening leg in Greece, but were hoping lightning wouldn’t strike twice. The Arsenal coach once again deployed Martin Odegaard in the number 10 role as the creative spark.
Early the game, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang saw a header tipped onto the bar, while Odegaard wasted a glorious opportunity from Kieran Tierney’s cut-back. However, the Norwegian soon made amends with a rocket of a strike from about 30 yards to open his account for the club.
Olympiacos were almost level as Arsenal were again caught trying to play out from the back, David Luiz’s pass being closed down by Giorgos Masouras, who then shot wildly wide of goal.
Moments later, a mix-up between Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno and midfielder Dani Ceballos gifted the hosts an equaliser shortly before the hour mark. Leno played the ball short and into the feet of Dani Ceballos, who was quickly closed down, losing possession as Olympiacos’ El-Arabi fired past an out-of-position Leno.
After conceding the gunners regrouped and began to dominate possession,creating a few chances in the process.
In the 79th minute, Willian collected a short corner and crossed for Gabriel, whose towering header put Mikel Arteta’s side back in front.
Arsenal weren’t looking to slow down as they seemed in the mood to end the round of 16 tie with Olympiacos in the first leg as they pressed on.
In the 85th minute, substitute Mohamed Elneny’s long-range strike secured a valuable 3-1 cushion ahead of next week’s return leg in London.
The Premier League side have now won more Europa League knockout stages at the home of Olympiacos than the reigning Greek champions themselves, but they made it harder than was necessary.
The win put Arsenal firmly in the driving seat and the Gunners will defend a 3-1 lead against Olympiacos at the Emirates Stadium next week.
Victory and three away goals!
