Sergei Ignashevich rolled the ball from a free kick to the Brazilian midfielder, who sent a hard shot past Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann in the 24th minute.

CSKA got the free kick after Arsenal defender Johan Djourou fouled Dudu.

``It was a tough match,'' CSKA coach Valery Gazzayev said. ``I take my hat off to my players _ they played perfectly and selflessly.''

Thierry Henry had Arsenal's first chance at goal in the 33rd minute, and CSKA striker Vagner Love had a goal disallowed for offside two minutes later.

The Gunners appeared to have an equalizer when Henry controlled the ball and converted from close range in the 86th minute. But the goal was disallowed for handball and the France striker was booked.

``I think it was a legal goal,'' Brazilian midfielder Gilberto said. ``The result was not what we expected, but we need to carry on.''

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger put on substitutes Emmanuel Adebayor, Gael Clichy and Theo Walcott late in the second half to push for an equalizer.

``(CSKA) played well, they defended very well with intelligent plays,'' Wenger said. ``They got a bit lucky, but they showed great spirit and great qualities.''

CSKA leads Group G with seven points, one more than Arsenal.