⚽ Goal summary
Viktor Gyokeres – 2nd minute – Arsenal
J Costa Monteiro – 7th minute (penalty) – Kairat
Kai Havertz – 15th minute – Arsenal
Gabriel Martinelli – 36th minute – Arsenal
R Viana Filho – 90+4 minute – Kairat
Arsenal 3-2 Kairat Almaty: Havertz inspires perfect European campaign
Arsenal rounded off a flawless Champions League league phase with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Kairat Almaty at the Emirates Stadium, showcasing both their attacking depth and growing confidence on the European stage. Goals from Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli ensured Mikel Arteta’s side finished the group stage with a 100 per cent record.
The Gunners needed only a draw to confirm top spot but approached the contest with intent from the opening whistle. Despite heavy rotation, the hosts looked sharp, fluid, and relentless in the final third, producing a first half that set the tone for another memorable European night in north London.
Fast start sets the tempo
Arsenal wasted no time asserting themselves, breaking the deadlock inside the 2nd minute when Kai Havertz slipped a perfectly weighted through-ball into Viktor Gyokeres, who powered a low finish beyond the goalkeeper for Arsenal’s opener.
Kairat responded almost immediately. A VAR review led to a penalty award, and J Costa Monteiro converted confidently in the 7th minute, restoring parity and briefly shifting momentum.
Havertz takes centre stage
Arsenal quickly regained control and it was Kai Havertz who delivered the decisive moment in the 15th minute, cutting inside onto his stronger foot before driving high into the net to make it 2-1.
The German’s movement between the lines unsettled Kairat’s back line throughout the first half, creating space for runners and dictating Arsenal’s attacking rhythm.
Martinelli strikes before the break
Sustained pressure told again in the 36th minute. Havertz provided once more, sliding a low cross across the six-yard box where Gabriel Martinelli arrived to finish from close range and extend Arsenal’s lead to 3-1 heading into half-time.
Late consolation, perfect record secured
Arsenal controlled the second half with maturity, limiting Kairat’s attacking threat and circulating possession effectively. Deep into stoppage time, R Viana Filho headed home in the 90+4 minute to give the visitors a late consolation, but the outcome was never in doubt.
The final whistle confirmed Arsenal’s perfect Champions League league phase, with three goals inside 36 minutes laying the foundation for another confident European victory and reinforcing their status as one of the competition’s standout sides.
