Napoli 2-0 Arsenal: Champions League Player Ratings

by Jamie Clark

Gonzalo Higuain and Jose Callejon struck second half goals as Napoli gloriously failed to reach the Champions League knockout stages as Arsenal scraped through ahead of them on goal difference.

Provided the Gunners did not lose by three they were through to the last 16 and a late winner for Borussia Dortmund in the other group game in Marseille meant they advanced too.

Arsene Wenger rested Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere with a trip to Manchester City coming up on Saturday for the Premier League leaders. Mathieu Flamini and Tomas Rosicky came into the Arsenal XI. Carl Jenkinson continued to deputize at right back for Bacary Sagna. Napoli, coached by former Liverpool and Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez, had former Arsenal target Higuain leading their attack. On-loan keeper Pepe Reina, still on the books at Anfield, sat this one out for the hosts, however. Former West Ham utility man Valon Behrami and ex-Bolton Wanders player Blerim Dzemaili anchored the Napoli midfield as they were missing playmaker Marek Hamsik. This game ultimately proved to be somewhat meaningless and that makes rating the players rather difficult. Should the WhatCulture sports team penalize the Gunners, who had captain Mikel Arteta sent off, for their shortcomings here? Click next to find out.
Contributor
Contributor

Jamie Clark is a qualified Web Journalist after undergoing professional training at the University of Sheffield. A prolific and accredited sports writer, he also enjoys classic comedy, historic fiction, 80s music and heritage.