In a surprising turn of events, Arsenal faced a stunning defeat at the hands of Porto, culminating in a 0-1 loss that saw Porto secure a substantial advantage in their Champions League last-16 encounter.
Arsenal experienced a stunning setback as Porto secured a last-minute victory with Galeno’s decisive goal in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 encounter. The Brazilian winger exhibited remarkable composure, curling the ball past David Raya in stoppage time, granting Porto a crucial advantage.
Throughout the first half, Sergio Conceicao’s Porto side applied relentless pressure, coming close to scoring on several occasions. Galeno’s earlier attempt struck the post, and his subsequent miss on the rebound provided Arsenal with a fortunate escape. However, their luck ran out in the dying moments of the match when Galeno capitalized on a defensive lapse to secure the win for Porto.
Despite enjoying substantial possession, Arsenal struggled to create clear-cut chances and failed to register a single shot on target throughout the game. Despite set-piece opportunities and corners, their attacking efforts were thwarted by Porto’s resilient defense.
Nico Gonzalez’s powerful strike had earlier sailed over the bar as the home side tried to open the scoring in the first half. The absence of precision in Arsenal’s finishing was evident, with opportunities from Declan Rice’s corner met by Leandro Trossard’s volley, which sailed over the bar. Arsenal’s forwards, including Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz, were kept at bay by Porto’s defense, resulting in limited goal-scoring opportunities.
For only the second time on record (since 2003-04) the Gunners did not have a shot on target in a Champions League game, previously failing in such a way at Barcelona in the last 16 in March 2011.
Mikel Arteta’s side, appearing in their first Champions League knockout tie since 2017, appeared nervy and lacked the attacking flair that has characterized their recent Premier League performances. Their inability to produce a shot on target in a Champions League match, a rarity for the club, underscores the challenges they faced against a determined Porto side.
The Gunners have won the first leg of just one of their last 12 two-legged knockout ties in the competition (D2, L9), losing each of the last seven first-leg matches.
The defeat adds pressure on Arsenal ahead of the second leg at Emirates Stadium on 12 March. To progress to the quarter-finals, Arsenal must deliver a vastly improved performance and overcome their recent struggles in European competition. With their Champions League ambitions hanging in the balance, Arsenal faces a formidable task against Porto as they seek to avoid another premature exit from the tournament.
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