Martinelli & Saka strike as Arsenal maintain perfect start

Gabriel Martinelli's early goal helped Arsenal maintain their perfect start to the league phase of the Champions League as they overcame Olympiacos.

Having beaten Athletic Club in their first game of the competition thanks to a goal and an assist from the Brazilian forward, he was again crucial for the Gunners.

Striker Viktor Gyokeres powered his way through the Greek side's defence, but when his shot bounced off the post after being saved by Konstantinos Tzolakis, Martinelli was on hand to tap in the rebound.

Substitute Bukayo Saka sealed the success in added time with a shot that squeezed through the legs of Tzolakis.

Mikel Arteta had made six changes from the side that dramatically beat Newcastle United on Sunday as the Arsenal manager utilised his new squad depth thanks to a £250m summer spend that brought in eight new players.

This has played a huge part in a solid start to this season and Arteta will be glad of the opportunity to protect key players such as Declan Rice and Saka in their busy schedule.

Olympiacos did threaten after Martinelli's 12th-minute opener as Daniel Podence forced David Raya into an excellent save from a superb volley from inside the area which the keeper pushed over the crossbar.

Francisco Chiquinho also had a goal ruled out for offside as the visitors pushed for an equaliser.

But Arsenal had chances at the other end too, with Martin Odegaard denied by Tzolakis and brave defending.

And having set up that chance for his captain, it was Saka who ensured success just before the end.

Arsenal analysis: Odegaard shows importance

A key factor in Arsenal's comeback win against Newcastle was the performance of captain Odegaard from the bench.

He dictated play and put in the corner which centre-back Gabriel headed in to secure a crucial three points.

Odegaard has been battling with a shoulder problem and is building up his fitness after a frustrating time at the beginning of this season.

He now looks to be over that issue and was handed a start against Olympiacos.

Arsenal have changed their style of play this season to be more direct bring out the best in Gyokeres.

Odegaard, who seemed to have all the time he wanted on the ball in midfield, repeatedly played dangerous balls in behind the Olympiacos defence and the opening goal came from one of those instances.

He then set up Saka for the second - and claimed the assist his performance deserved.

Boss Arteta has a lot more options in midfield this season so Odegaard's absence has not been felt as much as usual, but the Norwegian international showed in this performance why he is so often a key man for Arsenal.

What's next?

Arsenal are back at home on Saturday, 4 October (15:00 BST) as they host West Ham and look to keep up the pressure at the top of the Premier League.