Arsenal’s unbeaten Champions League record this season came to an end at the San Siro as Inter Milan secured a 1-0 victory through a Controversial Penalty.
The decisive moment came seconds before the break when Mikel Merino was penalized for handball following Mehdi Taremi’s flick, despite having little opportunity to avoid contact. After a VAR review, Hakan Calhanoglu converted from the spot, sending his effort straight down the middle.
This marked the first goal Arsenal had conceded in their European campaign, but they responded strongly in the second half. Gabriel saw his header cleared off the line by Dumfries, while Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer produced an outstanding save to deny Kai Havertz’s curling effort.
Havertz had another opportunity blocked by Yann Bisseck as Arsenal dominated possession after the break. However, they couldn’t find an equalizer despite creating several chances, in contrast to their recent goalless defeat at Newcastle.
The result leaves Mikel Arteta’s side 12th in the 36-team league format, adding to a difficult period that has seen them go three Premier League games without a win.
Arsenal received a boost with Martin Odegaard’s return to the squad after an ankle injury that had sidelined him since August. The captain made a late appearance as a substitute in stoppage time, offering hope ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Chelsea.
Despite maintaining their impressive defensive record at the San Siro, Inter, who had won seven of their previous eight games in all competitions, did enough to secure all three points and inflict Arsenal’s first European defeat of the season. Controversial Penalty
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