Arsenal tops Europa League group despite Koln defeat

Arsenal secured top spot in its Europa League group Thursday despite losing 1-0 to FC Koln, as the other Group H encounter between BATE Borisov and Red Star Belgrade ended in a goalless draw.

The match saw Danny Welbeck make his first appearance since Oct. 14 when he suffered a hamstring injury. However, manager Arsene Wenger was cautious with the English forward, removing him at half-time.

Although Arsenal enjoyed more chances and dominated possession, it was the hosts who broke the deadlock in the second half when Sehrou Guirassy converted the penalty which ultimately proved to be the difference between the sides.

Koln's victory keeps its hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive ahead of the final group stage match next month against Red Star Belgrade in Serbia.