Andrei Arshavin scored two goals in the final five minutes, either side of German Pacheco's effort, as Arsenal claimed a 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid in the Emirates Cup.
Arsenal fashioned a host of chances but required the talents of the Russian to secure victory and top spot in the table and it could be a sign of things to come for the season ahead.
Sergio Aguero is a striker out of the very top drawer, but the Atletico man's predatory instincts deserted him early on as he somehow headed against the woodwork after finding space at the back post three yards from goal.
All eyes were on Tomas Rosicky on his return to the Arsenal side and he almost marked the occasion with a stunning goal. The Czech, seemingly over the leg troubles which have threatened his career, curled a sumptuous effort into the top corner but the strike was ruled out for offside.
The game was played at a frenetic pace but for all the attacking endeavour, chances were at a premium in the first half.
Arsenal's best chance of the opening 45 minutes fell to the unlikely figure of Emmanuel Eboue. The Ivorian collected a pass from Robin van Persie, cut inside onto his right foot and thundered a shot on target that Sergio Asenjo did well to push to safety.
Arsene Wenger made changes at the break and Jack Wilshere, a teenager tipped for greatness at The Emirates, made an instant impact by fashioning a couple of chances.
Van Persie's back heel was smuggled off the line by John Heitinga and Nicklas Bendtner flashed a shot over the top from a tight angle.
Cesc Fabregas, Arshavin and Eduardo were thrown on with 25 minutes remaining but it was Wilshere who continued to catch the eye and he fashioned a chance for Fran Merida but he could not turn the ball goalwards.
Atletico threatened to cause a shock as Maxi forced Vito Mannone into a good save, but Arsenal edged ahead five minutes from time when Arshavin volleyed home from Fabregas' cross.
Arsenal's defensive shortcomings reared their head again seconds later as Pacheco skipped clear and rolled the ball beyond Mannone.
It appeared as if Arsenal had squandered the points, but no-one had told Arshavin who seized on some sloppy defending to race past the keeper and slip the ball in from a near-impossible angle.
Via: Yahoo! Sport
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