Arsenal secured safe passage to the last 16 of the UEFA Europa League (UEL) as Group A winners after a 1-0 victory over FC Zürich.
A 12th consecutive victory at the Emirates Stadium equals their best win streak on home soil since 2009.
Defeat in Eindhoven on matchday five meant victory was imperative for the Gunners, needing to win the group to avoid a daunting play-off with sides dropping down from the UEFA Champions League.
Despite a strong start from the visitors, Mikel Arteta’s men would take the lead through an unlikely source, as Kieran Tierney netted his first goal of the season.
Arteta was clearly not content despite his side being a goal to the good, with the Swiss champions’ endeavour making them a constant threat, albeit with very little to test Aaron Ramsdale.
Arsenal remained the more threatening side, with both Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus brilliantly denied by Yanick Brecher either side of the interval.
With PSV comfortably ahead in Norway, it was a nervy final few minutes for Arsenal as they held off the resilient visitors to ensure they finished top of the group.
Despite a spirited display, Zürich’s miserable season continued, exiting Europe while sitting bottom of the Swiss Super League.
