Ødegaard Fires Arsenal Past Napoli to Maintain Perfect Start

Martin Ødegaard believes Arsenal have reached a higher standard this season, with the Premier League champions extending their perfect opening run through a 1-0 Champions League win over Napoli in Naples.

What changed for Arsenal

Arsenal’s captain settled Wednesday’s match at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in the 75th minute, striking from outside the penalty area after the visitors had failed to convert several earlier opportunities. The goal was Ødegaard’s fourth in five appearances this term and earned him the player-of-the-match award.

The Norway international said last season’s league success had altered the squad’s belief. Arsenal had learned from previous disappointments, he said, and the experience of winning had given the group a stronger confidence.

“We feel different and much stronger this year,” Ødegaard said. “Winning gives you another kind of confidence, and you can see it across the team. We are playing with more confidence and feel on another level this season.”

Ødegaard added that Arsenal’s hunger had not diminished after lifting the title, with the side continuing to improve and seeking further honours.

His own form follows an injury-disrupted previous campaign. Ødegaard said repeated setbacks had made it difficult to establish rhythm, with returns to the team often followed by another problem or matches played short of full fitness. He recovered in time to contribute significantly during Arsenal’s title run-in, then carried that momentum into the World Cup and the new season.

“The biggest difference is that I am playing, feeling fit and feeling good,” he said. “Last season was difficult because of injuries and bad luck. Now I am happy with where I am.”

Competition context

The Napoli result opened Arsenal’s Champions League campaign with a victory at one of the competition’s more demanding away venues. Mikel Arteta’s team also reached last season’s Champions League final, adding European expectation to their domestic title defence.

• Arsenal have won each of their first five matches this season.
• All 10 of their goals have been scored from open play.
• Ødegaard has four goals in five appearances.
• Napoli 0-1 Arsenal was decided by Ødegaard’s 75th-minute finish.

Arteta highlighted the difference made by having his attacking players available after a previous season in which Arsenal were short of forwards. He was also satisfied with the resolve shown by his side in Naples.

The Arsenal manager said his players had displayed personality and quality against a strong opponent in a difficult stadium environment, while stressing that his focus was on the performance delivered on the night.

What is scheduled next

No subsequent Arsenal fixture was specified, but the club’s immediate task is to maintain its five-match winning start while balancing its Premier League title defence with the renewed Champions League campaign.