Inter Milan’s winning streak continues as Arsenal faces first Champions League setback

Inter Milan defeated Arsenal 1-0 in a Champion League match that was played on Wednesday with a penalty goal from Calhanoglu in the dying embers of the first half. The Italian team did not lose their unbeaten record at home and maintained it while Arsenal suffered their first defeat in this tournament. It was a nail-biting encounter, raising the hopes of one or another team after each play.

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This was not just a winning penalty that Inter did get, but it showed maturity, how the Italian team held off Arsenal's offensive surge in the second half with great composure and grit.

A Balanced First Half, Decided by a Fine Margin

The game started high paced from the first minutes. Just in the first minute, Dumfries had a clear opportunity, with a strong shot hitting the crossbar. Inter pressed hard from the very beginning, showing on their home ground they were ready to take control. Also, the attempt by Calhanoglu with a shot missed the target. During the initial moments, Inter was dominating; then, Arsenal managed to adjust and began dictating the possession around the 15-minute mark.

This possession, however, did not translate into real attacking positions for Arsenal. Arteta's men could keep the ball at their feet, but it was as clear as daylight that Inter were firm in their defense. The Italians had closed up space and had choked any efforts from Arsenal to get through them. Now, in injury time, the referee had pointed to the spot, as Merino handled the ball inside the box. With the coolness of ice, Calhanoglu put Inter ahead.

Arsenal's Grit in the Second Half

In the second half, Arsenal was determined to turn things around, bringing in Gabriel Jesus as they sought to strengthen their attack. With another Brazilian on the field, Arsenal's offense became more aggressive. Just on the first minute, Martinelli had himself a chance but sent it just wide. Pressing through the wings, Arsenal usually runs the plays on the touchline to stretch Inter's compact defense with dangerous crosses and tight passing plays.

Jesus's presence injected new life into Arteta's team, and they started applying consistent pressure on Inter. However, deep in defense, Inter's backline remained firm. Arsenal continued to press yet without precision. At the same time, Inter was relatively comfortable just sitting back, regulating the pace, and not affording Arsenal too many openings for dangerous shots.

Inter's Win Shows Strategy and Patience

This victory for Inter Milan means much more than three points. This team is nailed as one of the most consistent squads this Champions League season. With 10 points, they are comfortable in the standings and proved that they know how to play the crucial games. Big-expected Arsenal couldn't break the solid Inter Milan backline and make good use of their critical moments.

This victory, in such a functional and tactical style against Arsenal, gives Inter a lot of confidence and installs them as one of the favorites for this tournament. The selection to play it safe after scoring opened their eyes wide, which benefited head coach Simone Inzaghi by opting to protect the result instead of risking it.

Arsenal Feels the Weight of Defeat

It was just a wake-up call for Arsenal. With this defeat, they slumped to 12th place with seven points. The result highlighted the fact that despite being star-studded, Arsenal still has to work at breaking the barrier of strong defense teams and convert that possession into solid chances effectively.

This was a game that pitted two very contrasting styles, with Inter's patience in tactics prevailing over Arsenal's high-octane offense. To Inter, this victory cements them further in their resolve and sends notice to all teams that they are a force. As for Arsenal, it is back to the drawing board as the Gunners ponder means by which to penetrate stubborn defenses and find a foothold in an extremely competitive Champions League season.