David Raya’s mistake sees Arsenal throw away their lead against Lens in the Champions League… while the Spanish goalkeeper’s misplaced pass is punished by a stunning finish from Adrien Thomasson
- RC Lens scored a great equalizer in the first half of their match against Arsenal
- Adrien Thomasson curled an effort into the net after a David Raya error
- Click HERE to listen to the latest episode of Mail Sport’s ‘It’s All Kicking Off’
Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya had a moment to forget in the Champions League clash with Lens after gifting the hosts a crucial equalizer.
The Gunners took the lead in their Champions League group stage match thanks to Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus’ goal in the 13th minute of the match.
However, the lead for Mikel Arteta’s side was short-lived and the hosts hit back in the 25th minute thanks to a curling effort from Adrien Thomasson.
The chance came from a mistake by the Gunners’ Spanish goalkeeper, who appeared to fire a pass at full-back Takehiro Tomiyasu.
However, the attempt was intercepted by Lens and they countered in style, quickly firing the ball to striker Elye Wahi.
Adrien Thomasson drives away in celebration after scoring against Arsenal on Tuesday
The RC Lens striker curled a shot into the net after a mistake by David Raya
The forward did well to keep the ball under control and pass it off to Thomasson, who unleashed a curling effort into the top corner of the net.
There has been much discussion in recent weeks about Arteta’s decision to change his goalkeepers, with Aaron Ramsdale taking on a less important role than last season.
Arteta’s decision has caused a stir. Some have praised the Arsenal manager’s ruthless move, while others believe Ramsdale has been treated unfairly.
Arteta has suggested he could even choose to change goalkeepers mid-match and will make a decision on a game-by-game basis.
Former Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman has questioned the Gunners boss’ decision and insisted he is ‘surprised’ by Ramsdale’s treatment.
Exclusively spoken against Mailsport, the former goalkeeper said: ‘What he does is what he talked about. He makes sure they all get playing time. We’ll have to wait and see how that turns out.
Raya (left) was selected to start in goal ahead of England international Aaron Ramsdale (right)
‘I don’t know if I would have liked it that much before. I’m sure (Peter) Schmeichel wouldn’t have liked it either!
‘But things were different then, that was twenty years ago. The game has changed and Mikel is trying something new.
‘Will it work? I don’t know if I’m being honest. It’s still a mystery to me why Aaron stayed on the bench.’
