First-half goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka helped Arsenal secure a 2-0 home win against Paris Saint-Germain to kick-start their Champions League campaign on Tuesday in a match that saw Mikel Merino make his debut in the summer .

After bowing out to Italian side Atalanta in their opening match, it was up to Mikel Arteta’s side to get a win and they were impressive against the French champions.

Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

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The in-form Havertz headed his side into the lead after 20 minutes following a teasing cross from Leandro Trossard and Saka put Arsenal in full control 15 minutes later when his free-kick somehow found its way into the net.

PSG, who won their opening match against Girona, hit the woodwork in each half and played with more urgency after the break but could have few complaints about the outcome.

Arsenal’s comfortable position in the match allowed Arteta to bring on Merino for his debut after 63 minutes. The Spain international suffered a broken shoulder during his first training session after joining from Real Sociedad.

The win moved Arsenal into the top eight of the new 36-team competition stage with their next match at home to Shakhtar Dontetsk after the international break. PSG will play PSV Eindhoven in the next match.