David Raya helps Arsenal avoid defeat against Atalanta in the opening match of the Champions League

Arsenal started the match with enthusiasm despite playing away at Atalanta's Gewiss Stadium. The Gunners' intention to take the lead against the home team could not succeed due to the lack of necessary sharpness.

After being overwhelmed by the reigning Premier League runner-up for most of the first half, Atalanta players gradually regained control of the game and responded to the opponent but were still unable to shake Arsenal's net in the first 45 minutes.

At the beginning of the second half, the referee blew a penalty for Atalanta when Partey fouled Ederson in the visitors' penalty area. However, on the 11m mark, Retegui's shot failed to beat goalkeeper David Raya. The ball then bounced back to Retegui, who tried to head the ball back but Raya was still able to get up and block it a second time.

Obviously, the absence of key players, especially "conductor" Martin Odegaard, makes Arsenal's playing style lack creativity and the necessary versatility.

During the second half, the English team did not have many chances to attack the opponent's goal. On the other side, Atalanta attacked tirelessly but the goal kept turning away from the home team.

A 0-0 draw with Atalanta is not a bad result for Arsenal. Coach Mikel Arteta and his team had a difficult start in the UEFA Champions League.

On Sunday night this week, the Gunners from London have a difficult away trip to the Etihad Stadium of Man City, who also only got 1 point away at Inter Milan.

Starting lineup:

Atalanta: Marco Carnesecchi, Berat Djimsiti, Isak Hien, Sead Kolasinac, Davide Zappacosta (Bellanova 70'), Marten De Roon, Ederson, Matteo Ruggeri, Charles De Ketelaere (Cuadrado 60'), Mateo Retegui (Zaniolo 70'), Ademola Lookman.

Arsenal (4-3-3):David Raya, Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber (Calafiori 73'), Declan Rice, Thomas Partey (Jorginho 57'), Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka (Jorginho 73'), Gabriel Jesus (Trossard 57'), Gabriel Martinelli.