Arsenal maintained their perfect Champions League record with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Kairat Almaty at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday. The win ensured that the Gunners became the first team to win all eight league matches in the Champions League league phase.

Kai Havertz marked his first start of the season with a goal and an assist. Viktor Gyökeres opened the scoring in the second minute, assisted by Havertz. However, Kairat quickly responded, with Jorginho converting a penalty to level the score. Havertz then put Arsenal back in front with a curling effort before assisting Gabriel Martinelli, who scored his sixth Champions League goal of the season. Ricardinho's late header for Kairat proved to be a mere consolation as Arsenal secured the win.

Mikel Arteta made several changes to the starting lineup, with players like Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, and Christian Norgaard getting opportunities. Havertz and Riccardo Calafiori also returned from injury layoffs. Arsenal were without Declan Rice and Mikel Merino due to suspension.

Arsenal's eight consecutive Champions League victory also marked Mikel Arteta's 200th win as Arsenal manager. Despite Arsenal's dominance in the competition thus far, questions remain whether they can translate their league phase form into silverware. Arsenal have never won the Champions League, their only final appearance was in 2006.

Kairat Almaty, currently ranked at #405 in the world, had a tough night, and have not won a game in the League phase of the competition.

The match saw Havertz withdrawn at half-time after a sparkling performance. Despite a late surge from Kairat, Arsenal managed to hold on for the victory, continuing their impressive Champions League campaign.