Mikel Arteta hailed the 'hunger, desire and ambition' of his Arsenal players after they secured their place in the Champions League last 16 with a commanding 3-1 victory against Inter Milan at San Siro.
Gabriel Jesus, making his first European start in 405 days, opened the scoring in the 10th minute. Petar Sucic equalised for Inter eight minutes later, but Jesus restored Arsenal's lead before half-time. Substitute Viktor Gyokeres added a third to seal a memorable night for Arteta's side in Italy.
The result ensures Arsenal will finish either first or second in the 36-team group, granting them home advantage for the second legs of their knockout matches. A point against Kairat at the Emirates next week will guarantee top spot as they pursue their first Champions League title.
'We are very proud, not only for tonight but for what we have done in the competition so far,' Arteta said. 'We really had the hunger and desire to come to a place like this against a top side and prove what we are. The team has matured and is emotionally very controlled.'
Jesus, who spent 11 months sidelined with a knee injury, dedicated his performance to his dreams. 'I watched a lot of Serie A as a kid, so to be in this stadium and score, I have tears in my eyes,' he said. 'I am very happy Vik came on and scored.' Arsenal, seven points clear in the Premier League, host Manchester United on Sunday.
For Inter, the defeat leaves them facing a probable play-off to reach the next stage. Head coach Cristian Chivu conceded: 'Arsenal deserved to win tonight. They were stronger than us.'
