Arsenal banish their demons of the last 16 and make the quarterfinals for the first time in 14 years.The Arsenal beats Porto on penalties at the Emirates! Raya's saves send them to the ChampionsLeague quarters for the first time since 2010! Arteta's strategy, were key. What a memorable night yesterday at the Emirates
The late goal by Galeno in Portugal in the first leg match was set to deal a lasting blow on the Gunner's champions league journey. However, the Gunners appeared to be resolute in making sure they won't succumb to defeat right from the sound of the referee's whistle signalling kickoff .
The intensity the boys came with in the return leg of the round 16 fixture against Porto was quite evident . At first glance you could see the boys desired to churn out the most needed result which was to qualify for the quarter finals. The pressure mounted on the Porto defence by Arsenal eventually paid off in the 41st minute thanks to a Leo Trossard sublime finish , courtesy of Martin Odeegard's assist .
Trossard's late first half goal handed Arsenal a lifeline making the aggregate score 1 all . One definitely cannot ignore Porto's tenacity at ensuring the Arsenal team didn't score more goals . This they did painstakingly and efficiently stretching the match to extra time and subsequently penalty shootouts.
Even though I wasn't at the Emirates live yesterday night I could feel the intense nervousness among the home fans . It was indeed a nail biting moment as I watched the match. The second half was indeed a nervy one . In my mind I just wanted another goal from the Gunners . I thought my wish was to be granted as Gabriel Jesus had a clear cut chance as his first touch of the ball in the match as he came on for Jorginho but he missed . My heart skipped honestly!!
I must really commend Martin Odeegard, his performance yesterday was a true representation of how a leader should lead by example. He was literally and practically everywhere on the pitch yesterday. The only goal of the match was through his assist.
If no one gives Odegaard his flowers I will. That setup for the Trossard goal was nuts.In some years to come we鈥檒l be looking at him the same way we are currently looking at De Bruyne, an outstanding player Arsenal has on their hands.No wonder he started the penalty kicks for Arsenal .He was different gravy yesterday to be honest,hopefully he continues stepping up when it gets hard.
The gist of yesterday's Gunners victory won't be complete without mentioning David Raya's tremendous saves in the penalty shootout. He saved two penalties, the last one being Galeno's. Gradually if not certainly he is starting to get the nods of most Arsenal fans who thought he wasn't a better replacement for Aaron Ramsdale. His composure is second to none and it can only get better for the Spanish keeper if he doesn't relent on his blistering form and performance.
It's definitely good times at the moment for Arsenal and their fans . Currently top of the table and now qualifying for the quarter finals of the CL must be one hell of a roller coaster of emotions.
Arsenal won't be having a match till the end of the month . Having a two weeks break won't be a bad idea for the Gunners. I feel they should board a flight to you know where right ?? .
Our next match against City at the Etihad will be a tough fixture. The boys need to come into the game with the right mentality and fitness. Big congrats to the boys , they really deserve where they are today . They should keep the guns blazing , never removing there feet off the pedals.
