Mikel Arteta’s Gunners could become the first team in the new UCL format to finish the league phase with eight wins from eight matches.
Arsenal are on the verge of making European history. This Wednesday (28), the North London giants face Kazakhstan’s Kairat Almaty with a clear mission: to become the first club in the new UEFA Champions League format to complete the league phase with a perfect 100% record.
A Flawless Continental Campaign While the new format has proven challenging for many European powerhouses, Mikel Arteta’s side has made it look easy. With seven wins from seven matches, 20 goals scored, and only two conceded, Arsenal are the only team in the 2025/2026 edition still boasting a perfect winning streak.
Victory against bottom-placed Kairat who have managed just one point so far would cement the Gunners’ status as the team to beat in the knockout stages.
In Elite Company Only a select few have managed a perfect group/league stage in Champions League history. If Arsenal succeed tonight, they will join an exclusive list of legendary sides:
- Real Madrid: 2011/12, 2014/15, 2023/24
- Bayern Munich: 2019/20, 2021/22, 2022/23
- Barcelona: 2002/03
Liverpool, Ajax, & Manchester City: (Various seasons)
Bouncing Back from Domestic Setback The Gunners enter this European clash looking to shake off a disappointing 3-2 defeat to Manchester United in the Premier League. Despite the loss, Arsenal remain four points clear at the top of the table.
“The reaction has been excellent,” said Mikel Arteta regarding the squad’s morale. “We took a moment to reflect and ask ourselves what we want to experience in the next four months. The hunger is there.”
Match Info:
- Opponent: Kairat Almaty
- Kick-off: 8:00 PM GMT / 3:00 PM EST
- Status: Arsenal have already qualified for the Round of 16.
Wilson Gaspar is a football analyst covering the UEFA Champions League, focusing on match previews, tactical reviews, and the performance of Europe’s top clubs throughout the competition.
