England winger Bukayo Saka expressed his delight after Arsenal emerged as a force to be reckoned with in their triumphant return to Champions League football. The Gunners' performance in Group B has been nothing short of spectacular, securing four wins out of five games, amassing an impressive 12 points, and netting an astonishing 15 goals.
The highlight of their campaign so far unfolded in the encounter against Lens on Wednesday night at the Emirates, where Arsenal showcased their dominance in a mesmerising first half in which they scored five goals, a feat that not only established them as the first English team ever to score five in the first half of a Champions League game but also marked them as the first team ever to have five different scorers in such a setting.
Saka, a standout player in Arsenal's recent 6-0 triumph over Lens, expressed the team's elation, stating as BBC Sport quoted: "Everyone is really happy. It's our first time back in the Champions League for a while, and we've qualified with a game to go." Saka emphasised the initial goal of finishing at the top of their group, a mission successfully accomplished.
Reflecting on his personal approach to the game, Saka remarked: "I try to be myself, but when you cross the white line, it's you against your opponent. I try my best to be better than him. Whatever I have to do to win, I do it."
Despite his desire to play the full 90 minutes, Saka acknowledged the manager's decision and swiftly shifted focus to the upcoming challenge against Wolves, stressing his determination to give his best in that encounter. "Now I'm focused on Wolves," he said. "I want to do my best in that game. I'll never forget that day [my debut five years ago]. It was a cold day like this. I've gone through a lot on and off the pitch since then."
As Arsenal revel in their group victory, Saka's comments encapsulate the team's mindset – a balance of celebration and a swift redirection of focus to upcoming challenges. The anticipation now builds as the footballing world awaits the next chapter in Arsenal's historic journey through the Champions League.
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