Gunners boost hopes of progress

Ramsey 14, Koulibaly 25og gave them a two-goal lead to take to Naples next week.

The hosts started well and enjoyed plenty of possession as both Ramsey and Ainsley Maitland-niles saw efforts blocked by Koulibaly as they pushed for an early goal.

Emery’s side made their good start count in the 14th minute as Ramsey opened the scoring following a flowing move, latching onto a Maitland-niles pass after good work by Mesut Ozil and Alexandre Lacazette.

The lead was doubled 11 minutes later as Lucas Torreira had the wherewithal to steal possession from Fabian Ruiz and charge at the Napoli goal before his weak shot was diverted past goalkeeper Alex Meret off the leg of Koulibaly.

After the break, Napoli responded to their poor firsthalf showing as they attacked from the off, Insigne tucking away a chance only to be correctly flagged offside before Koulibaly saw a header tipped over by Petr Cech.

Arsenalsurvivedsomenervous moments, particularly in the closing stages when Napoli pressed for a vital away goal, but they stood firm and head to the San Paolo Stadium as favourites to advance to the last four.