Arsenal qualify for Europa knockout stage with narrow PSV win

Arsenal managed to advance to the Europa League knockout stage after beating PSV Eindhoven on Thursday, 1-0. Arsenal still has two group stage games remaining in the competition.

The Gunners dominated PSV in most areas. However, Granit Xhaka’s sweet strike in the 70th minute was the only goal of the game. It leaves the Gunners five points clear of the visitors in Group A.

The north London club can secure the top spot in the group with just a draw against PSV on Oct. 27. Even a loss against he Dutch giants in a week doesn’t necessarily give PSV the advantage atop the table. Arsenal would have to lose both of their last two remaining games in the group for PSV to have a chance at first place. The Gunners finish off their group games at home to last-placed FC Zurich in November.

Arsenal reach Europa League knockout stage

While Arsenal won the match on Thursday, they managed to only score one goal for the third consecutive game. Their normally potent attack has sputtered a bit in recent weeks. In fact, the Gunners netted at least two goals in nine of their first 10 total matches to began the current campaign.

Nevertheless, the team’s defense has stepped up when needed. The PSV game was the third consecutive game that opponents failed to score in. United States men’s national team goalkeeper again featured between the sticks for manager Mikel Arteta.

Turner has collected three clean sheets in four matches with his new club. The only goal that the keeper has allowed came in his opening game with the team back in early September.

Arsenal have now not lost a competitive match at home since April. This is a streak of 10 straight victories at the Emirates Stadium. During this stretch, the Gunners have outscored opponents 30 to 10.

The current Premier League leaders next travel to Southampton on Sunday, before the aforementioned PSV game in a week’s time.

PHOTO: IMAGO / Sportimage