Arsenal have managed to manufacture a 1-1 draw with PSG in their opening Champions League fixture of 2016/17.

Arsene Wenger's side were fortuitous at Parc des Princes but were able to grind out a pleasing result after Edinson Cavani's opener which occurred with 42 seconds of kick-off.

PSG started in fine form which resulted in right-back Serge Aurier providing a cross from the right wing for Cavani to glance a header inside the far post.

At times it appeared as though the visitors were set to be played off the park but the Gunners showed a renewed maturity by holding strong and finding an equaliser in the 78th minute.

Alex Iwobi's initial attempt from close range was charged down by PSG keeper Alphonse Areola but fell kindly to Alexis Sanchez on the edge of the area, inviting the Chilean to fire home.

Throughout the contest, Gunners keeper David Ospina was at his absolute best to deny Cavani on a number of occasions, with no less than three saves from the Colombian coming against the Uruguayan in the second half.

There was almost late drama after Olivier Giroud and Marco Verratti were both sent off by referee Viktor Kassai which saw Arsenal a tall player short at a corner in injury time which was almost headed home by Thiago Motta at the back post.

Nevertheless, the match ended at one goal apiece which gives the Gunners a handy point on the road in their opening Group A fixture.

The result keeps Arsenal's run of never having lost in France to French opposition alive and sets them up for a strong run in the group stage with their next match at home against Swiss powerhouse FC Basel on September 28, when PSG meet Ludogorets in Bulgaria.

2016/17 UEFA Champions League - Group A

PSG (FRA): 1 (Edinson Cavani 1', red card: Marco Verratti 90+3')
Arsenal (ENG): 1 (Alexis Sanchez 78', red card: Olivier Giroud 90+3')

Parc des Princes, Paris, France - 46,440