Arsenal break records with dominant win in Prague
Arsenal’s defensive fortress stood tall once again as they brushed aside Slavia Prague 3-0 to make Champions League history. For the first time since 1903, the Gunners have kept eight consecutive clean sheets in all competitions — a streak that also sees them unbeaten in ten straight games. It’s a record that confirms what many already know: Mikel Arteta’s side are becoming one of Europe’s most complete teams.
Arsenal unbreakable in Prague
Slavia Prague arrived unbeaten in domestic football and determined to challenge Arsenal’s rhythm. But after a lively start from the Czech champions, it was the visitors who imposed their authority. The breakthrough came midway through the first half when Gabriel’s header struck the arm of Lukas Provod. Following a VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot, and Bukayo Saka calmly sent Jakub Markovic the wrong way to make it 1-0.
From that point, Arsenal’s control was absolute. Declan Rice dictated the tempo, Christian Nørgaard anchored midfield in the absence of Martín Zubimendi, and the defence once again looked impenetrable — led by the rock-solid pairing of Gabriel and Saliba.
Merino takes charge
Within seconds of the second half starting, Arsenal doubled their advantage. Rice spotted Leandro Trossard unmarked on the left, and the Belgian’s cross was volleyed home at the near post by Mikel Merino. It was a move straight from the training ground — speed, precision, and ruthless execution.
Merino added his second 15 minutes later, reacting fastest to a looping Rice delivery and nodding beyond Markovic. The 3-0 lead reflected Arsenal’s dominance, but the performance was defined by discipline and control rather than flamboyance.
Dowman makes history
The final minutes provided a glimpse of Arsenal’s future. Fifteen-year-old Max Dowman became the youngest player in Champions League history when he replaced Trossard with the result already secured. Within moments, he was dribbling past defenders and drawing fouls — a fearless display that earned praise from Arteta.
“What he’s done on the pitch, the first ball he takes, he dribbles, he gets fouled,” Arteta said. “That’s courage and personality. You can’t teach that — you either have it or you don’t.”
Mindset over milestones
Arteta, ever the perfectionist, preferred to focus on his side’s mentality rather than the record itself. “The most pleasing thing isn’t the record,” he said. “It’s that the players are already talking about how we can do better. That’s the mindset that keeps us improving.”
Despite an injury list that includes Viktor Gyökeres, Gabriel Martinelli, and captain Martin Ødegaard, Arsenal continue to find solutions. Merino’s sharpness, Rice’s leadership, and the tactical flexibility of this squad underline their evolution into genuine contenders.
Next up, the North London derby against Tottenham after the international break — a showdown that could define Arsenal’s momentum heading into the winter. With this form, they’ll enter it with swagger, steel, and perhaps a touch of history on their side.
