[Player Ratings] Dortmund 0-1 Arsenal: Rosicky The Unsung Hero For Gunners

Arsenal took a huge step towards qualification to the knockout stages of the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Borussia Dortmund in Germany last night. Here are my ratings for Arsene Wenger’s men:

Szczesny 7.5/10

Made a couple of crucial saves to keep us ahead and commanded his area well, coming to collect crosses to ease the pressure. Looks a different player to this time last season.

Sagna 7/10

The Frenchman was his dependable self once again, fighting for the cause and keeping the home sides attack at bay.

Mertesacker 8/10

Excellent performance from the giant German. He marshalled the back-line, put his head on everything and kept the dangerous Lewandowski relatively quiet.

Koscielny – 8/10

Continued his superb partnership with Per with another rock solid display. Made a number of important interceptions and blocks. Should have had a penalty when he was cleaned out by the Dortmund keeper.

Gibbs 7/10

Wasn’t as adventurous as he usually is due to the threat posed by the opposition but didn’t give Reus a sniff.

Arteta 6.5/10

Struggled with the pace of the game in the first half and was fortunate not to be sent off for two bookings, but he settled down in the second half and did an excellent job in staying on the field to help his team over the line.

Ramsey 8/10

Another all-action display and yet another goal. He ran more than any other player on the pitch and was rewarded by heading home the winner. Was unlucky not to add a second shortly after as well.

Rosicky 9/10

The unsung hero. He ran his socks off, closing down Dortmund at every opportunity and was excellent when we had the ball. A vital player for us last night.

Cazorla 7/10

Not his most creative game but that’s to be expected as we were under a lot of pressure. Santi still showed signs of his quality and worked hard to track back and help out in defence.

Ozil 7/10

Was pretty quiet until we scored at which point he became central to our attacking play.

Giroud 7.5/10

Was a constant pest for the home side to deal with and while his hold up play wasn’t always on point, his assist for Ramsey was vital.

Subs

Monreal 6/10 – On to shore things up.

Vermaelen N/A – On too late.

Bendtner N/A – On too late.

A massive win and we stay top of Group F on difference from Napoli, who are away to Dortmund next. We could secure qualification with a win over Marseille at the Emirates as long as the Italians get something from the game in Germany.

What were your ratings from the game? Will Arsenal now go on to qualify? Share your views below.