Gabriel Jesus initially put Mikel Arteta’s team in the lead, but the absence of the English winger left them lacking offensive bite against the underdog French side.
Arsenal experienced their first defeat of the season in the Champions League against Lens, despite taking the lead through Gabriel Jesus. Unfortunately, a mistake by goalkeeper David Raya allowed the home team to equalize. The situation worsened for the Gunners when Bukayo Saka had to leave the field due to an injury.
In the absence of their key player, Arsenal struggled to find attacking creativity, a vulnerability that Lens recognized as the match progressed. This provided the hosts with the confidence to go on the offensive. Consequently, it came as little surprise when the impressive Elye Wahi netted a goal for Lens with just over 20 minutes remaining.
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In response, Mikel Arteta made substitutions, introducing Ben White, Emile Smith Rowe, Reiss Nelson, and Eddie Nketiah. However, Arsenal’s patient attempts at breaking through the Lens defense yielded little, and Lens comfortably held on to secure a well-deserved three points in their first Champions League home game in over two decades.