Champions League Arsenal headlines the night as Mikel Arteta’s side finished first place in the Champions League league phase, completing a perfect eight wins from eight after a dramatic 3–2 victory over Kairat Almaty on Wednesday night.
Arsenal achieved the feat in Europe during the final round of the league phase, with Kai Havertz scoring on his first start in nearly a year.
The result matters because it secures Arsenal a direct route to the last 16, while also confirming that five English clubs finished inside the top eight, underlining the Premier League’s dominance in Europe this season.
What happened in Arsenal’s Champions League match?
Arsenal capped off their flawless Champions League campaign with a narrow but entertaining win against Kairat Almaty.
Kai Havertz opened the scoring early, marking his return to the starting line-up after almost 12 months out due to injury setbacks.
Arsenal controlled most of the match but faced late pressure as Kairat pushed hard, scoring twice in the second half. Despite the scare, Arsenal held on to seal the win and maintain their 100% record.
Key match facts:
- Final score: Arsenal 3–2 Kairat Almaty
- Arsenal Champions League record: 8 wins, 0 losses
- Goals conceded across the league phase: 7
- Goals scored: 19
“Finishing first with eight wins shows how far this team has come,” Arteta said post-match, according to BBC Sport.
Why does finishing in first place matter for Champions League Arsenal?
Finishing in first place gives Arsenal a huge competitive advantage.
By topping the table, Arsenal avoids the Champions League play-offs and moves directly into the last 16, reducing fixture congestion and injury risk during the busy domestic season.
Arsenal become the first team to finish the league phase with a 100% record 😤#UCL pic.twitter.com/wcuQqZPEf6
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) January 28, 2026
It also boosts Arsenal’s UEFA coefficient ranking, which affects future European seedings and prize money.
Prize money impact (approximate UEFA figures):
- League phase wins: £2.3 million per win
- First-place finish bonus: £8 million
- Estimated total earnings so far: over £40 million
Which English teams reached the Champions League last 16?
England dominated the Champions League standings this season.
English clubs finishing in the top eight
- Arsenal – 1st
- Liverpool – Qualified
- Manchester City – Qualified
- Chelsea – Qualified
- Tottenham Hotspur – Qualified
Newcastle United, however, finished outside the top eight and will now face the Champions League play-offs, adding extra fixtures and risk to their campaign.
A UEFA analyst on Sky Sports noted that “English clubs are benefiting from squad depth and financial stability unmatched elsewhere in Europe.”
How important was Kai Havertz’s return for Arsenal?
Kai Havertz’s goal was more than just a number on the scoresheet.
The German international had not started a competitive match for Arsenal in nearly a year due to injuries and fitness concerns. His performance adds attacking depth at a crucial time, especially with domestic and European fixtures piling up.
UK-based case study: Last season, Arsenal struggled in Europe once injuries hit their forward line. This season, improved squad rotation and fitness management have helped them maintain consistency across competitions.
What does this mean for the Premier League in Europe?
The Champions League table paints a clear picture: England currently sets the pace.
Five clubs finishing in the top eight is a rare achievement and strengthens the Premier League’s position as Europe’s strongest domestic competition. It also increases the likelihood of English teams progressing deep into the knockout rounds.
