Gabriel Jesus delivered a stunning performance, bagging a brace as Arsenal defeated Inter Milan 3-1 at the San Siro in their latest Champions League encounter. This victory not only secured Arsenal's place in the last 16 but also extended their winning streak in the competition to a club-record seven games. The Gunners have now won all 11 of their group games in the Champions League since a 1-0 defeat to Inter in November 2024.

Arsenal started strong, with Jesus opening the scoring in the 10th minute, capitalizing on a mishit attempt from Jurrien Timber. Inter Milan responded swiftly, with Petar Sucic scoring an impressive equalizer just eight minutes later. However, Jesus struck again in the 31st minute, heading home from a corner to restore Arsenal's lead. Substitute Viktor Gyokeres sealed the victory with a late goal, firing in from long range.

Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, praised his team's "special performance," highlighting their ability to compete against one of Europe's best teams at the San Siro. Arteta made seven changes to the starting lineup, balancing the need to maintain their unbeaten run with the demands of a busy schedule. The victory showcased Arsenal's squad depth and tactical flexibility.

Jesus, who recently returned from a lengthy knee injury layoff, expressed his delight at scoring in the iconic stadium, calling it a "dream night". His performance underscored his importance to the team and his exceptional record in the Champions League. With 34 goal involvements in 53 appearances, Jesus boasts an impressive average of 1.03 goal involvements per 90 minutes in the competition.

Despite the victory, Arsenal will be without Mikel Merino for their final group-stage match against Kairat Almaty due to suspension. Merino received a yellow card during the Inter Milan game, triggering an automatic one-match ban. Similarly, Declan Rice will also miss the Kairat match due to accumulation of yellow cards. Arsenal will need to reshuffle their midfield for the upcoming fixture, with players like Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi potentially stepping in.

The win against Inter Milan marked Arsenal's first victory on Italian soil since 2008, ending a run of four losses in their previous five matches in Italy. It also solidified their position at the top of their Champions League group, guaranteeing them a top-two finish and a favorable draw in the round of 16. With their strong form in both the Champions League and the Premier League, where they hold a seven-point lead, Arsenal are emerging as serious contenders for major honors this season.