A deflection and an own goal helped Arsenal overcome Celtic in Glasgow to leave the Gunners with one foot in the Champions League group stages. Arsenal took the lead two minutes before the break when William Gallas inadvertently diverted a Cesc Fabregas free-kick past Artur Boruc, and Gary Caldwell put through his own net in the 71st minute.
Only Barcelona and Dinamo Moscow, in the previous round, had beaten Celtic in the previous 36 European matches at Parkhead. But Arsene Wenger's side enjoyed a comfortable second half to leave them in a commanding position ahead of next week's play-off second leg. Arsenal looked more comfortable in possession from the start, finding space in front of Celtic's back four.
Celtic looked like they might survive until half-time but luck was against them after Caldwell was penalised for a foul on Cesc Fabregas 30 yards out. The free-kick was rolled short to the Spaniard, whose 30-yard drive bounced off the back of Gallas and spun into the opposite corner to where Boruc was heading.
The game almost drifted beyond Celtic within a minute of the restart after Landry N'Guemo miscontrolled a simple take in the centre circle.
Abou Diaby replaced Arshavin and immediately played a key role in Arsenal's second goal.
The substitute burst forward and set up Gael Clichy for a low cross that was turned home by the outstretched boot of Caldwell.
Afterwards Arsene Wenger admits it took two lucky goals to beat Celtic but the Arsenal boss insists they deserved their good fortune.
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