'.

When Jack and Theo play like this, they tear teams apart: Arsenal player ratings v BATE Borisov

Arsenal battered BATE Borisov 6-0 in the Europa League in Thursday night in one of the best performances from Arsene Wenger’s men so far this season.

Although Arsenal are SUPPOSED to be beating BATE Borisov at home, you and I know that our Europa League games have been somewhat lacking. Therefore, it’s reassuring to know that although we’ve already progressed to the knock-out stages, we still gave everything and won emphatically. We can only beat who’s in front of us, after all, and boy did we beat them.

We saw goals from Mathieu Debuchy, Theo Walcott, Jack Wilshere, Olivier Giroud and Mohamed Elneny and superb performances all around.

Although BATE were poor, we capitalised on this and made the trip worth it for the 10 Arsenal fans who actually showed up to the Emirates.

Here’s how the rest of the team got on individually.

Defence

David Ospina – 6

Considering the goalkeeper had pretty much nothing to do, it’s difficult to rate him. Then again, he didn’t do anything wrong and collected all two (!) of BATE’s shots so I feel a 6 is fair.

Mathieu Debuchy – 8

The defender had a brilliant game and not just because he scored a stunner. He completed 92% of his passes, as well as three dribbles, and won five aerial duels. The defender also won two tackles.

Rob Holding – 7

Although he didn’t make any noticeable mistakes, Holding still isn’t too convincing at the back. He failed to make a tackle and only won one aerial duel. Although, the defence admittedly didn’t have heaps to do because BATE hardly ever got out of their own half.

Calum Chambers – 7

Chambers completed six clearances, made one interception and won a tackle. However, like Holding, he didn’t really have to get that involved.

Next up, midfield

Midfield

Ainsley Maitland-Niles – 7

The 20-year-old put in another solid, professional performance. He won three tackles and made three interceptions. Although he only completed 84% of his passes, he proved his maturity and knew when to hang back. It wasn’t his most impressive display for the senior team but it was strong nonetheless.

Mohamed Elneny – 7

Elneny had a good game, hitting the bar in the first half and netting Arsenal’s sixth goal in the second. The midfielder completed 72/75 passes and generally put in a good shift.

Francis Coquelin – 7

Coq wasn’t terrible. He completed 90% of his passes and was even showboating at one stage without showing us up. Joking aside, a solid performance from the Frenchman.

Jack Wilshere – 8

Jack had a strong match. Not only did he score a lovely goal, he was everywhere throughout the game, driving play and getting involved in everything from the get-go. He also managed an assist and completed four dribbles – more than anyone else on the pitch. When he and Theo play like this, they tear teams apart.

Next up, forwards

Forwards

Theo Walcott – 8

The 28-year-old made a real effort to get forward and try to make the difference early on. Not only did he score, he managed an assist as well. This match was an example of how effective Theo can be when he’s feeling comfortable.

Danny Welbeck – 7

The striker managed one of his trademark ‘assists’ for Theo’s goal. However, he’s not looking 100% fit or sharp yet. This will surely improve with time.

Olivier Giroud – 7

The Frenchman had seven shots – more than anyone else on the pitch – and took his penalty well despite having to take it twice.

Stats via WhoScored.com.

Related Posts