Robin Van Persie scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot on 37 minutes, to hand Arsene Wenger's men a one-goal advantage ahead of the second leg in Rome.

Arsenal looked keen on scoring an early goal, and on six minutes Samir Nasr ended a good run by squaring back towards Nicklas Bendtner, who couldn’t control the ball.

Nasri turned from provider to receiver when Gael Clichy's pinpoint cross was headed wide by the Frenchman.

Roma hit back through Marco Motta. The right-back darted his way past the Arsenal defence before hitting a low shot that went just wide.

In the 37th minute, Arsenal where given the chance to open the score line when Van Persie was brought down in the area by Philippe Mexes.

The Dutchman stepped up to confidently to send Doni the wrong side.

In the second half, Bendtner had a great chance to double Arsenal's lead. The Dane was released by a Van Persie touch before firing over.

On 55 minutes, Doni did well to keep Roma in the game, as the Brazilian keeper punched away Abou Diaby's powerful shot.

Some dreadful defending from Roma saw Emmanuel Eboue go clear on Doni. The Ivorian dallied before producing a wide shot for the game to end in a 1-0 win for the home side.