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Arsenal Extend Perfect Champions League Run with 3-0 win

Published

5 months ago

November 5, 2025

Arsenal extend perfect Champions League run with a 3–0 win over Slavia Prague as Merino scores twice, Saka nets a penalty, and Dowman makes history

Arsenal extend perfect Champions League run to four consecutive victories and matched a club record of eight straight clean sheets after defeating Slavia Prague 3–0 in the Czech capital on Tuesday night.

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The Gunners delivered a commanding display that featured Mikel Merino’s brace, a Bukayo Saka penalty, and history made by 15-year-old Max Dowman, who became the youngest player ever in the competition’s history.

In a post-match statement, the club said, “We made it four wins out of four in the Champions League, and equalled a club record for eight consecutive clean sheets.”

After a lively start from the hosts, Arsenal grew into the game and soon took control. Saka forced a pair of early saves from Slavia goalkeeper Jakub Markovic, before winning and converting a penalty on 32 minutes following a handball decision.

“Saka took his time before firing low into the bottom right corner,” Arsenal’s report read.
“It’s the fourth consecutive Champions League game in which he has scored, taking his tally to 12 goals from just 20 starts.”

Merino, starting as a makeshift striker due to Viktor Gyokeres’ injury, doubled Arsenal’s advantage right after half-time, volleying in Leandro Trossard’s cross from close range.

The Spanish midfielder then added his second — and Arsenal’s third — midway through the second half, pouncing after goalkeeper Markovic misjudged Declan Rice’s delivery.

With victory assured, Mikel Arteta handed a memorable debut to teenager Max Dowman, who entered the record books at 15 years and 308 days old.

“He became the youngest player in Champions League history,” Arsenal confirmed.

A late Slavia penalty appeal was dismissed after a VAR review, ensuring Arsenal’s defence preserved their outstanding clean-sheet record.

“Eight in a row equals a club record that has stood since 1903,” the club added.

The result cements Arsenal’s place atop their group, level on points with Real Madrid, and continues their superb form under Mikel Arteta.