Arsenal navigated a tense penalty shootout to narrowly defeat Porto, marking their first quarterfinal appearance in the Champions League in 14 years. Despite Porto’s sturdy performance in the initial leg, Arsenal managed to equalize the aggregate score with a well-executed goal by Leandro Trossard.
Nevertheless, penetrating Porto’s disciplined defense posed a significant challenge throughout the game. Arsenal ultimately emerged victorious in the shootout, with goalkeeper David Raya emerging as the standout performer after saving two penalties.
Manager Mikel Arteta commended his team’s resilience and highlighted the importance of reaching the quarterfinals after several unsuccessful attempts. While Porto may have been disappointed by the outcome, their commendable performance away from home underscored their defensive strength, particularly led by experienced defender Pepê.
If Arsenal beats Fc Porto today.. I will deactivate my account. pic.twitter.com/n7rjIDzhIr
— Prince💎Official (@kan_see_me) March 12, 2024
Despite their efforts, they had little to show for it, as their dismal away record against English clubs continued with their 20th loss in 24 games. Porto’s strategy of disrupting Arsenal’s attacking rhythm proved effective in the first leg, where Galeno’s late goal secured a 1-0 victory, and it remained successful.
Arsenal struggled to generate clear-cut chances in the first half, with Odegaard’s shot into the side-netting representing one of the few glimpses of their usual attacking prowess. Supported by a significant number of traveling fans, Porto remained composed and occasionally posed a threat, with Brazilian striker Evanilson forcing Raya into a fine save.
As halftime approached, tension mounted among the home supporters, but the mood shifted in the 41st minute when Odegaard, often Arsenal’s catalyst, threaded a pass through Porto’s defense, allowing Trossard to score past Diogo Costa.
Despite expectations of an Arsenal resurgence in the second half, Porto adhered to their game plan, disrupting the match’s flow with various tactics. Arsenal’s frustration reached a peak midway through the second half when Pepe’s attempted shield resulted in Odegaard scoring. However, the goal was disallowed due to a foul by Havertz, prompting Arteta to receive a yellow card in protest.
With the tie hanging in the balance, Arsenal faced anxious moments as Francisco Conceição threatened their goal, forcing Raya into another crucial save. Meanwhile, substitute Gabriel Jesus came close to scoring with his first touch, but his close-range effort was saved by Costa’s legs.
Extra time concluded without a breakthrough, but Arsenal emerged triumphant in the first Champions League knockout match to go to penalties since the 2016 final between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid.
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