Arsenal ran out 3-2 winners in a thrilling match in Sofia against Ludogorets Razgrad in the Champions League.
Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil celebrates scoring their third goal
Arsenal came from 2-0 down to win an enthralling Champions League group game by three goals to two against Ludogorets Razgrad in Sofia. With such an erratic display from the Gunners, here are how their players fared as they retained top spot in Group A.
David Ospina
Couldn’t have done much about either goal but was shaky in the first half. However, he pulled out some important saves in the second. 6/10
Carl Jenkinson
Was pretty much tortured by Wanderson on Ludogorets’ left-hand side. Also failed to track Marcelinho when he darted inside. 4/10
Arsenal’s Carl Jenkinson in action with PFC Ludogorets Razgrad’s Wanderson
Shkodran Mustafi
Carried the ball out of defence well but was again caused problems by Marcelinho and failed to stay on his man for the first goal. 5/10
Laurent Koscielny
Simply failed to track his man for the second Ludogorets goal but was also assured on the ball. 5/10
Kieran Gibbs
Was too easily beaten by Jonathan Cafu for the second goal but was very good going forward, amply supporting the attack. 6/10
Granit Xhaka
Took his goal well and was characteristically classy in possession. Distribution was again excellent. Reckless challenges at the end saw him booked and hauled off, but they were largely ‘taking one for the team’. 7/10
Francis Coquelin
Unhelpful in possession and was run ragged by Marcelinho in the midfield. However, he helped break up play towards the end when Arsenal needed it. 5/10
Aaron Ramsey
For the most part, was very good. A willing runner, combines well with Arsenal’s other attacking players and provided an excellent cross for Olivier Giroud’s equaliser. 8/10
Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsey shoots at goal
Mesut Ozil – Man of the Match
The star of the show once again. He’s been given a freer role than ever for Arsenal and it’s paying off – kept the Gunners ticking, provided a great ball for Xhaka to sweep home and his goal was simply breathtaking. 9/10
Alexis Sanchez
Lively and tricky, but struggled back out on the left. His ball through for Ozil for the first Arsenal goal was a highlight, but should have gathered Xhaka’s pass and scored in the second half. 6/10
Olivier Giroud
Another well-taken goal and provided an apex to the Arsenal attack. However, his link-up play wasn’t up to speed and he does not provide the directness or fluidity that we’ve seen with Alexis. 6/10
Arsenal’s Olivier Giroud celebrates scoring their second goal
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