Gabriel Jesus scores twice as Arsenal beat Inter to reach Champions League last 16

Gabriel Jesus delivered a performance full of emotion and quality as Arsenal beat Inter Milan 3-1 to secure their place in the Champions League last 16. The Brazilian striker, making only his third start since returning from an 11‑month layoff with a cruciate ligament injury, scored twice in a dream night at San Siro.

Jesus admitted he had “tears in my eyes” after ending a run of 10 Champions League games without a goal. His brace, combined with Viktor Gyokeres’ late strike, ensured Arsenal maintained their 100% record in this season’s competition with a club‑record seventh successive win.

The 28‑year‑old has endured setbacks since joining Arsenal four years ago, but against Inter he looked back to his best. “I always dreamed of being a footballer… to be here in this stadium and score here is tears in my eyes,” he said.

Gyokeres, who has struggled for form since his summer arrival, added Arsenal’s third with a fine curling effort, his second goal from open play in 13 games. Manager Mikel Arteta welcomed the impact of both forwards, noting it was the first time this season two centre‑forwards had scored in the same game for the Gunners. “We have been missing Gabi a lot,” Arteta said. “It raises his confidence and the team’s.”

Jesus’ tally now stands at 26 Champions League goals in 53 appearances, with only Neymar and Jardel reaching 25 in fewer games among Brazilian players. His humility and team‑first attitude drew praise from Clarence Seedorf, who highlighted the importance of competition driving performance.

Wayne Rooney added that Jesus should be pushing to start Arsenal’s next game, a Premier League clash with Manchester United. “He’s come here, scored two goals and played really well,” Rooney said. “If I was him, I’d be putting it in the manager’s mind that I really want to play.”

Arsenal’s victory not only underlined their European credentials but also showcased the depth of attacking options Arteta now has, with Jesus, Gyokeres, and Kai Havertz all vying to lead the line.