Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya was the standout performer in a tense Champions League opener, pulling off a stunning double save from a penalty to secure a 0-0 draw against Atalanta on Thursday night.
The drama unfolded when Arsenal conceded a penalty after Thomas Partey clipped Atalanta’s Ederson inside the box. Mateo Retegui stepped up for the Italians, but Raya denied his low spot-kick, diving to his right.
In a remarkable display of agility, the Spaniard then scrambled across the goal to block Retegui’s follow-up header, ensuring the ball stayed out just before it crossed the line.
It was the defining moment of an otherwise quiet match in Bergamo, with neither side creating many clear-cut chances. Arsenal only managed two shots on target, both coming in quick succession when Marco Carnesecchi denied Bukayo Saka’s free-kick and Thomas Partey’s rebound.
Atalanta dominated possession but couldn’t break through, and Raya’s heroics kept Arsenal in the game. The save has already been compared to some of Arsenal’s greatest goalkeeping moments, notably David Seaman’s iconic stop against Sheffield United in the 2003 FA Cup semi-final.
Despite the lack of attacking threat from both teams, Raya’s performance will boost Arsenal’s morale as they prepare for their upcoming Premier League clash against Manchester City.
