It’s not over until the fat lady sings and a 2-0 win at the Emirates means the gunners will have to defend like their lives depend on it in Italy, relying on a series of counter attacks against Napoli.
One suspects that Emery won’t be that cautious and will try to add to the advantage in the second meeting but Arsenal will have to defend resolutely to kill this game off.
They were very impressive with a classic Arsenal performance that had some beautiful moments, especially Ramsey’s well worked, well taken goal in the 14th minute but they could have and should have scored four or five.
Let’s hope for a repeat of this slick, dynamic and committed display which will see Arsenal head into the semi’s.
Cech – 6
Hardly got his gloves dirty or broke a sweat.
Sokratis – 7
Physical and up for the fight.
Looked fairly untroubled for the majority of this contest.
Koscielny -7
Solid contribution from the skipper in the twilight of his Arsenal career.
Flashes of what made him one of the best defenders four or more years ago. Always willing to put himself in harms way but can’t afford an injury before the second leg.
Monreal – 6
Too easy to shake off and get behind. It’s noticeable of late that he has lost a yard of pace which can get him into trouble.
Maitland-Niles – 8
Explosive and determined.
A very impressive outing and looked every inch a regular in this side, which is a complete contrast to his timid Everton appearance.
Torriera – 8
Oh how we’ve missed his naturally competitive spirit.
A snappy little ball winner that steals from the advancing feet and turns it into attack. What’s not to like, gives everything.
Ramsey – 9
Cometh the hour, cometh the man.The go to man for a goal at a crucial time.
Clearly loving his central role and being at the heart of things. He harried and pressed, pushed and probed and his goal was just so Arsenal and so Ramsey.
Kolasinac – 7
More in defence than attack at times but a valuable contribution by robbing the ball in intimidating fashion.
Some of the Napoli players looked scared to death.
Ozil – 8
Enjoyed his time on the pitch by causing havoc by way of flicks, dink’s and subtle passes.
Not everything he did was perfect but he did enough to keep Napoli on the back foot and added his usually class to the proceedings.
Aubameyang – 7
Didn’t look razor sharpe but his presence occupied the defence and he could have got a goal.
Even below par, he is a danger.
Lacazette – 6
A rare moment of indecision in front of goal that could have ended any hopes for Napoli but he was kept quiet by the impressive Koulibaly despite his impressive form this season.
Mkhitaryan – 7
Added fresh legs when replacing Lacazette in the 67th minute, provided an opportunity for Ramsey which he failed to convert from close range.
Iwobi – 4
replaced Ozil as part of a double change but couldn’t find a way into the game.
