I expected a much tougher fight in this match from Braga but they chose to be timid and played with only one striker up front, with the Braga coach choosing to leave his main goal-getter,Lima on the bench. The lone striker, Matheus was often stranded up front and our defense had no problems coping with the Braga attacks. We sported an all French defense for the first time ever and it was hardly tested.
Cesc started the rout in the 9th minute when he converted the penalty after Chamakh was brought down by the goalkeeper. After that, the away side settled a bit and managed to hold their position for a long spell and even slightly threatened with Alan's run down the wing. All this change when Arshavin scored our second goal, following yet another brilliant pass from Cesc. Just 4 minutes later, Chamakh added the third.
The second half began much like the first, with Arsenal controlling possesion and the Braga players chasing shadows. Cesc made it 4-0 when he headed in a delightful chip from Arshavin following good work from the captain himself, chasing after a loose ball. The introduction of Vela for Chamakh brought two more goals as the Mexican scored his first two Champions League goals for the club. Cesc nearly got his hattrick but was just denied by the outstretch hands of the goalkeeper.
Even though he did not get his throughly deserved match ball, this victory is all due to Cesc. As with the weekend's win over Bolton, our captain control the midfield and unselfishly set-up goals for his teammates. The last goal of the night is testament to this young man's character as he could have easily gone for goal himself but chose to pass to a teammate in a better position. In two games, Cesc has dispel any lingering thoughts from the fans that his heart is no longer at the Emirates. Judging by his attitude and passion for the club, it would really be a sad day when he finally leaves the club at the end of the season.
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