Inter vs Arsenal: Second-string Gunners make short work of Champions League finalists

With an eye on the huge weekend match against Manchester United, Arsenal fielded a weakened team against Inter in the Champions League and showed their squad depth in a comfortable 3-1 win over the Italians.

A brace from Gabriel Jesus and another goal from summer signing Viktor Gyokeres were enough for the Gunners to get the desired result despite Petar Susic's goal for the hosts.

Arsenal produced an impressive display in northern Italy despite already securing automatic qualification for the Champions League last 16 earlier in the evening, following Manchester City’s shock defeat to Bodø/Glimt.

Mikel Arteta’s side played with freedom and intensity from the outset and were rewarded in the 10th minute when Gabriel Jesus slid home from close range after Jurriën Timber’s effort broke kindly to him, capping a flowing team move and marking Arsenal’s 400th European Cup goal.

Inter responded swiftly, however, as Petar Sučić levelled eight minutes later with a superb right-footed strike after sustained pressure exposed an uncharacteristically fragile Arsenal defence.

The hosts threatened again through Marcus Thuram, but Arsenal regained control before half-time when Jesus headed in his second goal, finishing off a clever corner routine involving Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard.

The visitors continued to push after the break, with Yann Sommer forced into saves to deny Eberechi Eze, while Trossard went close with a volley. Inter made attacking changes but failed to capitalise, and Arsenal sealed the win late on as Viktor Gyökeres finished a slick move involving Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.

The victory extends Arsenal’s unbeaten run to 12 matches and guarantees a top-two league-phase finish, while Inter’s top-eight hopes now hang in the balance after a third straight Champions League defeat.