Arsenal are through to yet another Champions League round of 16.

The Gunners secured top spot in Group A for the first time since 2011/12 thanks to a hat-trick from Lucas Perez in Basel.

As a result, Arsenal know they will avoid Barcelona and Monaco, who have got the better of them out in the past two seasons, as well as Atletico Madrid and Napoli in Monday’s draw.

However, it’s by no means home and dry for Arsene Wenger’s side. The Gunners could be drawn against Bayern Munich or either Real Madrid or Dortmund who clash in their Group F decider tonight.

It’s the first time Arsenal have gone an unbeaten throughout the group stages since 2005/06 – the year they went all the way to the final.

If that’s not enough of a positive omen to get Arsenal fans dreaming of Champions League success, then take a look at THREE more reasons we can do it…

Alexis Sanchez

The Arsenal talisman is in scintillating form this season. Sanchez has 13 goals in all competitions and while the Gunners have him in their side, they always have a chance.

The Chilean has been operating through the middle this season where he has flourished. His performances have held comparisons to Luis Suarez’s 2013/14 Liverpool run.

The 27-year-old has the unique ability to turn a game on it’s head within an instant and Arsenal will feel they can beat anyone if Sanchez is on form.

Finally Group Winners

The Gunners have added confidence going into the next round.

Arsenal finally won their Champions League group for the first time in six seasons and it will likely present an easier draw in the round of 16.

After so many disappointing second place finishes which have seen Arsene Wenger’s side twice draw both Bayern Munich and Barcelona, Arsenal have a strong chance of drawing a weaker side.

And you would expect no complacency after seemingly drawing a weaker Monaco side two seasons ago and losing.

Maturity in this squad

Arsene Wenger believes his current squad of players is at a turning point.

And with the boss’ long tenure at the club is rapidly diminishing, what further impetus does he and this Arsenal team need.

The Gunners have already ended a poor run of results against Chelsea this season and after negotiating an unbeaten Champions League campaign for the first time in years, it seems the belief is there to have a successful season.