Arsenal beat Porto 4-2 on penalties in the Champions League round of 16 to reach the quarterfinals for the first time in 14 years. After Porto led 1-0 from the first leg, Leandro Trossard’s exquisite finish leveled the score at the Emirates Stadium.
A thrilling penalty shootout followed a 1-1 draw after extra time. Arsenal’s players executed four penalties with steely nerves. Gunners goalkeeper David Raya’s saves against Brazilians Wendell and Galeno sealed the win.
With the crowd roaring, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta called the night “magical.” The Champions League anthem played at the Emirates Stadium for the first time in seven years, adding to the occasion.
Porto were resilient despite Arsenal’s early domination and Trossard’s goal, showing threats from Evanilson and Francisco Conceição. Arteta’s displeasure after Odegaard’s disallowed goal increased drama.
The tough match emphasized the brutality of Champions League knockout rounds, affirming Arsenal fans’ confidence in their team’s ability. The win takes Arsenal to the quarterfinals, where they want to make more noise in the Champions League.
Arsenal’s determination and fans’ unflinching support were shown by the penalty shootout. The emotional night ended with partying, chanting the club song and saluting manager Arteta with ‘Super Mik Arteta.’
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