David Raya pulled off an incredible double save from a penalty, helping Arsenal secure a draw in their Champions League opener against Italian side Atalanta.

 David Raya pulled off an incredible double save from a penalty, helping Arsenal secure a draw in their Champions League opener against Italian side Atalanta.

David Raya made a crucial double save that defined an otherwise uneventful match, as Arsenal drew with Atalanta in their Champions League opener. The Spaniard first dove low to his right to deny Mateo Retegui’s penalty and then somehow managed to scramble across the goal to block the follow-up header off the line. This was the standout moment in a largely forgettable match in Bergamo, where both teams struggled to create clear chances.

Raya’s heroics came during a rare period of drama. Outside of that two-second flurry, Arsenal's keeper wasn’t called upon for much else. In fact, Arsenal went through a long stretch without a shot between the 18th and 75th minute. Their only other chance came when Atalanta’s goalkeeper, Marco Carnesecchi, pulled off his own double save, tipping away Bukayo Saka’s free-kick and then stopping Thomas Partey's rebound.

The penalty that led to Raya’s incredible save came after Thomas Partey clipped Ederson inside the box. Following a lengthy VAR check, the spot-kick was awarded. During that time, Raya consulted with Arsenal’s goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana, and whatever advice he received clearly paid off. Retegui's penalty wasn't the best, but it still required Raya to stretch out and dive to his right. The real magic came moments later, as Retegui attempted to head the rebound into an open net, only for Raya to somehow scoop it off the line, a save that will be remembered alongside Arsenal greats like David Seaman’s iconic stop in the 2003 FA Cup semi-final.

Though it wasn’t a match full of excitement, securing a point against Europa League winners Atalanta is a credible result, especially with crucial Premier League fixtures against Tottenham and Manchester City looming. Mikel Arteta will no doubt be happy with the resilience his side showed, particularly in defense. 

Gabriel Jesus captained the team in Martin Odegaard’s absence, with Kai Havertz filling in the midfield, though neither side created many chances beyond the early moments. Arsenal’s focus will now shift to their next big test as they prepare to face City in their quest for Premier League glory.

Player of the match: David Raya.