Football
Arsenal Secure Champions League Last 16 Spot With Comfortable 2-1 Victory In Spain Over Girona
Having worked in the sports journalism and sports betting writing industry for several years now, Paul has gained vital skill, knowledge and expertise in a variety of different sports and industries. Paul is confident and competent at writing in-depth stories, features and betting predictions on a regular basis for SportsCasting. Having worked in the sports media industry ever since graduating from Liverpool John Moores University in 2020, where he attained a First Class Honours Degree in Sports Journalism, Paul has jumped at the opportunity to attend numerous live sporting events on a regular basis. This includes working at some high calibre boxing, darts, UFC and football events over the years. Paul has covered a whole host of sports for BBC Sport, as well as being a consistent and regular contributor at ESBR Boxing for several years before becoming a Director in March 2024. Paul’s expertise lies in a wide range of sports, but he is particularly specialised in boxing, MMA, golf, football, darts and horse racing. He is also well-rounded in various sports which he may be less familiar with. Working in sports he is less familiar with helps him learn new skills, as well as nurturing the ability to adapt and overcome potential obstacles. Being a sports fanatic, Paul relishes the opportunity at taking on new challenges and is happy to try his hand at anything. During his time studying at university, Paul had the opportunity to gain some vital work experience at both Everton Football Club and BBC Radio 1. This has helped Paul master his knowledge of sports writing, as well as learning new skills with competence and proficiency.
Get to know Paul Kelly betterPublished29 Jan 2025
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal secure a third place finish in the Champions League league phase thanks to a 2-1 victory over Girona in Spain. Catch the Girona vs Arsenal highlights and report HERE.
Arsenal March On To Champions League Last 16 With 2-1 Victory Against Girona
Although Arsenal were the pre-match favourites with the best UK football betting sites, it was the hosts who took the lead just before the half-hour mark as former Spurs, Bournemouth and Everton man Danjuma gave Girona the lead.
The Gunners we’re behind for long though, with Jorginho equalising from the penalty spot ten minutes later.
With the wind now in their sales, Ethan Nwaneri found the back of the net to give Arsenal the lead for the first time of the night in Spain.
Although Mikel Arteta’s side were ahead at the break, it was still all to play for in the second half with Girona looking to end their Champions League campaign on a high, despite not being able to qualify for the knockout stages.
HT: Girona 1-2 Arsenal
The hosts made five substitutions in 11 minutes in the second half, which seemingly paid off in the 77th minute.
Just as it looked like the Gunners were easing their way to a fairly routine 2-1 victory, Girona equalised through Cristhian Stuani, well at least they thought they did.
The former Middlesbrough striker was deemed to have been in an offside position, much to the relief of Mikel Arteta and Arsenal fans. Although the result of this game had no real baring on either side, winning and keeping momentum is always important.
The Gunners did indeed hang on to win 2-1, taking their total Champions League league phase points tally to 19. A third place finish means Arsenal are already in the hat for the last 16 draw, and await confirmation as to who their opponents will be in a few weeks time.
WATCH: Girona 1-2 Arsenal Highlights
Next up for the Gunners is an absolutely huge clash with Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday.
Mikel Arteta’s side welcome Pep Guardiola and co to The Emirates, looking to keep up the pressure on league leaders Liverpool who remain in the driving seat in the Premier League. Winning is simply a must for Arsenal on Super Sunday.
Be sure to claim the various football betting offers and free bet deals available on the SportsCasting site ahead of the next round of Champions League fixtures.