Martin Ødegaard’s superb 75th-minute strike secured Arsenal a hard-fought 1-0 victory away at Napoli in their Champions League league-phase opener at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

The Arsenal captain, on Wednesday night, curled a left-footed effort from outside the box that went in off the far post, assisted by substitute Christos Tzolis, to give the Gunners a deserved lead after they had dominated for long periods.

Arsenal controlled possession and created the clearer chances throughout, firing in more than 20 shots.

Napoli, missing key players including Scott McTominay, struggled to break down a solid Arsenal defence under Massimiliano Allegri.

After four minutes of added time, the referee blew the final whistle. Mikel Arteta shook hands with Allegri, who then walked straight down the tunnel.

The result gives Arsenal a strong start to their European campaign following last season’s runners-up finish.

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