Edison Mendez scored in the second-half to help Dutch side PSV Eindhoven secure a 1-0 home win over Arsenal in the first-leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 on Tuesday. The Ecuadorian midfielder netted what proved to be the winner one minute past the hour mark as PSV claimed a precious victory. Arsenal dominated the first-half but created few chances to open the score line. Czech Republic midfielder Tomas Rosicky had the chance to open the score for Gunners when he cleverly collected a ball inside the area before striking it low, but a superb save from PSV Brazilian keeper Gomes denied the visitors an early lead. The game looked cold with no dangerous opportunities, only Rosicky and French teammate Thierry Henry caused a threat on Gomes goal while Brazilian striker Diego Tardelli was PSV's active man as the score remained goalless at the interval. PSV looked refreshed as they entered the second period, Ivorian striker Arouna Kone could have broken the deadlock in the 52nd minute when he connected with Philip Cocu's cross to send volley that went wide. The home side assured their superiority when Mendez fired a superb 30-yard powerful drive past Arsenal keeper Jens Lehmann in the 62nd minute. Arsenal pushed forward searching for the equalizer but were frustrated by PSV's organized defense and brilliant display by Gomes.
