Arsenal thrashed Swiss club FC Basel 4-1 at the St. Jakob Park in their final group stage game of the UEFA Champions League 2016-17. Having already sealed qualification for the next round, Wenger’s men finished at the top of their group, after PSG were held to a 2-2 draw by Bulgarian side Ludogorets.
Summer signing Lucas Perez was the star for the Gunners, as he grabbed a hat-trick in his first-ever start for Arsenal in the Champions League before Alex Iwobi added one to the scoreline. Seydou Doumbia pulled one back for the home in the 78th minute, but it was too little too late by then.
Following another impressive performance from the Gunners, let’s take a look as to how each individual fared:
David Ospina – 6
Was hardly called on throughout the game. Made two important stops in the first half but could not do much to keep out Doumbia’s late goal.
Kieran Gibbs – 8
The Englishman was absolutely devastating going forward. Was directly involved in all of Perez’s goals. Defended solidly despite being booked.
Laurent Koscielny – 7
Another assured display at the back from the Frenchman. Made some crucial tackles, was brilliant with the ball at his feet.
Rob Holding – 7
The 21-year old looked the part. Was calm, composed and wasn’t overawed on his Champions League debut. Looks like a great prospect for the Gunners.
Gabriel – 7
Continues to impress in his makeshift right-back role. Hardly put a foot wrong throughout the game. A confident display from the Brazilian, encouraging signs for Arsenal.
Granit Xhaka – 8
Broke up play with so much ease in the middle of the park against his former club. Distributed the ball brilliantly completing 104 passes on the night out of 111 attempted. He’s becoming a key cog in the Arsenal midfield.
Aaron Ramsey – 7
Linked well with the attackers going forward, did his defensive duties as well. Better from the Welshman after a poor EFL Cup outing last week
Alex Iwobi – 7
Had a quiet first-half. His first touches let him down at times but was at the right place to hit home the Gunners’ fourth strike. Did not shy away from defensive responsibilities.
Mesut Ozil – 8
As has been the case in recent times, the German was the creative focal point for the Gunners. His passing and his excellent vision were on full display. Set up Iwobi for Arsenal’s fourth goal on the night.
Lucas Perez – 9
Faultless display by the summer signing starting his first Champions League game. Grabbed two first half goals before completing a hat-trick in the 47th minute, all from close range.
Alexis Sanchez – 7
Another tireless performance; full of running and energy from the Chilean. Always a nuisance to the Basel defence with his movement and passing. Unlucky not to score after a free-kick hit the crossbar.
Substitutes
Olivier Giroud – 6
Came on for Alexis in the 69th minute. Did not have much impact, as Arsenal looked to see out the game.
Mohammed Elneny – 7
Came on for Aaron Ramsey in the 69th minute. Enjoyed his return to his former club, as he helped Arsenal control things and see the game out.
Theo Walcott – NA
Came out to replace Mesut Ozil with 15 minutes left to play. Made some bursting runs forward but to no effect.