Arsenal began their Champions League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Napoli in Italy. The match was decided by a single goal from captain Martin Odegaard, whose strike is being described by multiple outlets as a "stunner" or "superb" effort.

While the result was positive for the visitors, the lead-up to the match was reportedly complicated. The Guardian reported that both the team and hundreds of traveling supporters faced significant travel delays on Tuesday. Furthermore, the match saw a minor visual change for Arsenal, who were required by UEFA to wear red shorts instead of their usual white ones, a kit configuration not seen since 2022.

Media outlets generally agree that Arsenal were the dominant side throughout the contest. Sky Sports and The Guardian both characterized the win as "deserved," noting that while Arsenal may not have been at their absolute "flowing best," they maintained control of the game. BBC Sport highlighted that the goal continues Odegaard’s strong start to the current season. Despite the narrative of Arsenal's dominance, the scoreline remained tight, reflecting a disciplined defensive effort from the home side until the breakthrough was made.