Madueke masterclass powers Arsenal past Club Brugge

Arsenal continued their flawless Champions League campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory away to Club Brugge, producing a performance packed with quality, control and clinical finishing at the Jan Breydelstadion.

The tone was set midway through the first half when Noni Madueke delivered a moment of pure brilliance. Drifting into space centrally, the winger unleashed an unstoppable left-footed strike from distance that crashed in off the underside of the crossbar, silencing the home crowd and underlining Arsenal’s confidence on the European stage.

Club Brugge refused to fold immediately and carried a threat on the counter, forcing David Raya into a string of important saves before the break. However, the Belgian champions were punished early in the second half, just as they were searching for a foothold in the contest.

Less than two minutes after the restart, Arsenal struck again. Martin Zubimendi floated a pinpoint cross to the far post, where Madueke arrived unmarked to power home a header and double both his tally and Arsenal’s advantage. From that moment, the balance of the match tilted decisively in the visitors’ favour.

The contest was effectively sealed in the 56th minute with another stunning finish, this time from Gabriel Martinelli. Cutting inside from the left, the Brazilian whipped a sensational right-footed effort into the top corner, giving the goalkeeper no chance and confirming Arsenal’s dominance.

With the result beyond doubt, Mikel Arteta took the opportunity to manage minutes and reward young talent. Gabriel Jesus made his long-awaited return to competitive action after 332 days out, while 16-year-old Marli Salmon was handed his Champions League debut. Jesus nearly crowned his comeback with a goal, only to be denied by the crossbar, but his sharp movement provided plenty of encouragement.

Arsenal’s overall control was reflected in the numbers, even with heavy rotation across the side. The Gunners now boast six wins from six in the competition, reaching 18 points and moving clear at the top of the league phase for the first time in the club’s history.

For Club Brugge, it was a sobering night. Despite moments of promise, they were ultimately outclassed and remain stranded near the bottom of the table with four points, their hopes of progress fading fast.

As the Champions League pauses until the new year, Arsenal look every bit like serious contenders, while Brugge face mounting pressure to revive their European campaign when action resumes.