David Raya delivered a standout performance in Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League clash against Atalanta, playing a pivotal role in securing a 0-0 draw. The Arsenal goalkeeper pulled off a brilliant double save, denying a penalty and the following rebound, helping his team return from Bergamo with a valuable point.
David Raya and Arsenal’s goalkeeper coach, Iñaki Caña before Atalanta’s penalty 👀🧠 pic.twitter.com/dyMShilmry
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) September 19, 2024
The crucial moment came just after halftime, when Arsenal’s Thomas Partey brought down an Atalanta player inside the box. After a VAR review, referee Clement Turpin awarded the penalty. Mateo Retegui stepped up to take the shot, aiming for the left corner, but Raya was equal to it, making a diving save. The drama didn’t end there – Retegui was quickest to the rebound, seemingly facing an open goal, but Raya got back up in time to block the header, pulling off a remarkable second save.
Following the match, Raya credited Arsenal’s goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana for his assistance in preparing for such moments. “I just went to speak to the goalie coach to have more sense of where to go and where not to go. What to do and what not to do” Raya explained. “He helped me a lot in every aspect, so credit to him as well.” Raya’s heroics between the posts were crucial in ensuring Arsenal left Italy with a point, keeping their Champions League campaign on track.