Key stat highlights Kai Havertz’s ‘unbelievable’ performance for Arsenal against PSG

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Arsenal earned their first victory in this season’s Champions League on Tuesday night, beating French giants PSG 2-0.

The Parisian side arrived at the Emirates Stadium having not lost a match all season, but first-half goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka saw the Gunners run out comfortable winners.

After Arsenal drew their opening Champions League game with Atalanta, the victory was even more important for Mikel Arteta’s side to show a statement of intent on the European stage.

An unbeaten start to the Premier League campaign has once again highlighted their domestic credentials. Still, Arteta will be looking to prove that his side can compete in all competitions this season.

Familiar foes Bayern Munich knocked Arsenal out of the Champions League last season, but Tuesday’s win against one of European football’s powerhouses in PSG shows that Arteta’s side are capable of writing that wrong.

Another difference for Arsenal compared to last season is the form of frontman Havertz. He only managed a single European goal last season, but one key stat from last night’s impressive performance could indicate that he’s ready to dominate for Arteta in the Champions League.

Arsenal star Kai Havertz won the most duels against PSG

Havertz gave Arsenal the lead against PSG, heading home from a delicate Leandro Trossard cross. However, it was his impressive battling from the front that was most impressive.

The German led the match in successful duels, winning seven ground duels and four in the air. When comparing this to PSG’s attack, Bradley Barcola and Desire Doue managed only two successful duels.

Dominating physical performances like these will allow Arsenal to remain in Champions League ties, allowing their attacking flair the chance to deliver the knockout blows to see the Gunners progress in the competition.

Havertz spoke of his newfound love for duels after the PSG match, which combined with his clear technical talents, can see him become one of the Champions League’s elite marksman.

Mikel Arteta praises ‘unbelievable’ Kai Havertz in PSG win

Speaking to Amazon Prime after the victory, Arteta heaped the praise onto his German striker.

He said: “He’s [Havertz] been unbelievable. His football brain, the way he understands space, his timing, the way he brings people together, he just gels the team.

“His work ethic is incredible, and every time he’s around the box, he’s a real threat. He’s one of our main players at the moment.”

After perhaps flattering to deceive in his maiden Arsenal season, Havertz is beginning to show why Arteta can rely on him as his starting striker.

Five goals in nine appearances this season have seen any doubts about the German’s credentials disappear. By adding this ability to win duels consistently, any potential Champions League push for Arsenal will see Havertz heavily involved.