The build-up to the game was understandably dominated by tributes to missing striker Sala. His name was included as part of the Cardiff squad in the match programme, while a moment’s silence was observed before the match. In the stands, banners and shirts honouring the striker could be seen. Argentina flags were commonplace.

The match itself got off to an exciting start - Bobby Reid twice going close for the Bluebirds, who made a point of pressing the Gunners at every opportunity during the opening 15 minutes. The tide of the game gradually began to change, however, with Arsenal taking control and suffocating Cardiff of possession. But despite their dominance, Arsenal failed to create any clear-cut chances. As the half drew to a close, rain began to sweep across the Emirates, and the game suffered as a result. Emery's men thought they should have had a penalty in first-half injury time, with Lacazette going down after a heavy challenge by Ecuele Manga. But referee Mike Dean waved play on, infuriating the home fans.

The second-half continued in the same vein as the first, and it wasn't until the 65th minute that the game sprang to life. Again Lacazette went down from an Ecuele Managa challenge, and again the Emirates screamed for a penalty. This time it was given, and Aubameyang stepped up calmly to put the hosts in front. The goal seemed to lift Emery's men, and suddenly they were in complete control. And 20 minutes later, the second goal came. Lacazette was the instigator once again, driving into the area and firing hard across goal. Cardiff goalkeeper Neil Etheridge got a hand to it, but the shot's power saw it deflect into the corner of the net. 2-0, and game over. Or so it seemed.

Shortly after the fourth official had signalled for five minutes of added time, Nathaniel Mendez-Laing found the net with a superb low shot into the bottom corner. Cardiff sprang to life with an urgency they could have done with half an hour earlier, and a comeback seemed possible. But Arsenal weathered the storm for the final three minutes, and held on for an invaluable three points. For Cardiff, this evening was always going to be more about the loss of Emiliano Sala than anything that happened on the pitch, and they can hold their heads high. Although their quality was lacking, their effort certainly wasn't.

N. Mendez-Laing

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