Arsenal started life after Cesc Fabregas with a slender victory over Udinese in the Champions League qualifier first leg at Emirates Stadium.
Watch Uefa Champions League qualifying football match, Arsenal Vs Udinese highlights.
Venue: Emirates Stadium.
Date: 16 August 2011.
Kick-off: 1945 BST.
1-0 Walcott 4′
Arsenal will be without suspended duo Samir Nasri and Robin van Persie for the Champions League play-off first leg against Italian side Udinese.
An early goal proved enough to give Arsenal the win, but they had to endure some torrid times from the visitors who played as though they were determined to shed the image of the dour defensive Italians away from home.
After Arsenal’s bright start the visitors grew in confidence, and were winning balls in midfield seemingly at whim, launching fast. cutting raids towards the Arsenal goal, only the final touch being lacking.
De Natale, who hit the frame with an excellent free kick, was on particularly fine form.
After 75 minutes or so, Arsenal came back into the game somewhat and made a couple of good chances as Udinese seemed to falter, and only a magnificent save from the Udinese ‘keeper prevented Walcott from scoring what seemed an inevitable second goal.
Once more Udinese came back into the fray, and it was the home team who were grateful to hear the final whistle, the visitors disappointed somewhat that their efforts did not earn them the draw that they probably merited.
After Arsenal’s dour Premiership opener, their performance in this game must raise some concerns, despite some flashes of outstanding play from Gervinho which bodes well.
They will no doubt hope that the return of Van Persie and Wenger in the return leg, along with Walcott’s pace can get them past a very impressive Udinese team who must fancy their chances at home against an club in no little disarray at this time, and under huge pressure.
It has been a long time since I have relished the prospect of an ECL qualifying leg with such eager anticipation!