Havertz's Masterclass Exposes Gyokeres' Shortcomings in Gunners' Victory
Arsenal maintained their perfect Champions League record with a 3-2 victory over Kazakh side Kairat, but the match revealed a stark contrast between two strikers that could define their season.
Havertz's Triumphant Return
Kai Havertz made a spectacular return to action after 357 days out through injury, demonstrating the quality Arsenal have sorely missed. The German international looked a class apart from the moment he stepped onto the pitch, showing sublime control, intelligent passing, and scoring a beautifully curled left-footed effort that showcased his technical excellence.
His performance provided Mikel Arteta with exactly the kind of boost Arsenal need as they approach crucial domestic fixtures, with the manager wisely withdrawing him at half-time to preserve him for Saturday's important trip to Leeds.
Gyokeres' Wasteful Night
In stark contrast, summer signing Viktor Gyokeres endured a frustrating evening that raised serious questions about his suitability for a club with Arsenal's ambitions. Despite scoring Arsenal's opening goal and technically providing an assist, the Swedish striker was remarkably wasteful in front of goal.
Gyokeres missed several clear opportunities, including one particularly glaring chance from just three yards out that ended up going out for a throw-in. His assist for Gabriel Martinelli's goal came from a scuffed shot rather than intentional play, highlighting his technical limitations against even modest opposition.
Arteta's Selection Strategy
Mikel Arteta's decision to change his entire starting lineup from Sunday's defeat to Manchester United demonstrated both Arsenal's impressive squad depth and the perceived weakness of their Kazakh opponents. The comprehensive rotation allowed key players to rest while giving others valuable minutes, though it also exposed the gulf in quality between squad members.
The match saw 17-year-old Brando Bailey-Joseph make his senior debut as a substitute, indicating Arteta's willingness to blood young talent in less pressured situations.
Match Progression
Arsenal started brightly with Havertz playing a delightful through ball to Gyokeres, who controlled it well before firing home from 20 yards within two minutes. Kairat equalised seven minutes later through a Jorginho penalty after Riccardo Calafiori's foul, awarded following a VAR check.
Havertz restored Arsenal's lead with his exquisite finish before Gyokeres' scuffed effort eventually led to Martinelli forcing the ball over the line. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Arsenal conceded a late consolation through substitute Ricardinho.
Implications for Arsenal's Season
This match provided telling evidence about Arsenal's striking options as they pursue both Premier League and Champions League success. Havertz's return offers genuine quality and creativity that has been absent from their attack, while Gyokeres' performance suggests he may struggle to deliver consistently at the highest level.
With Arsenal now topping their Champions League group with a perfect record, attention turns to whether their striking department has sufficient quality to maintain their challenge on multiple fronts throughout the remainder of the season.
