Hakan Calhanoglu’s Penalty Secures Narrow Victory for Inter Over Arsenal in Champions League
Hakan Calhanoglu continued his flawless penalty record for Inter Milan, netting the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory against Arsenal in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Both teams entered the match with unblemished defensive records, having not conceded a goal in their first three games of the tournament. However, Arsenal’s defense was finally breached just before half-time when Mikel Merino was penalized for a handball in the box. Calhanoglu stepped up and confidently converted the penalty, marking his 19th successful spot-kick from 19 attempts since joining Inter.
The Nerazzurri, who made several changes to their lineup, were deserving of their lead, having previously struck the post through Denzel Dumfries. Despite Inter’s strong start, Arsenal ramped up the pressure in the second half, with Kai Havertz being denied by goalkeeper Yann Sommer and another shot deflected wide.
Inter’s defense held firm, securing another crucial win that brings them to 10 points from four matches. Arsenal, now three points behind, find themselves outside the top eight but welcomed back captain Martin Odegaard from injury as a late substitute.
