Lisbon, PORTUGAL – Substitute Kai Havertz struck a dramatic stoppage-time goal to secure a 1-0 victory for Arsenal against Sporting Lisbon in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday night.
Okay News gathered that the German international came off the bench to break the deadlock at the Estádio José Alvalade just as the cagey encounter seemed destined for a goalless draw. Havertz latched onto a pass from fellow substitute Gabriel Martinelli in the 91st minute, produced a composed finish, and silenced the home crowd to give the Gunners a vital away win.
Arsenal’s victory was largely underpinned by the heroics of goalkeeper David Raya, who made several world-class saves to keep the scores level. Raya tipped a goal-bound effort from Maxi Araújo onto the crossbar early in the match and denied late chances from Geny Catamo and Luis Suárez. The North London side also survived a scare when a Martin Zubimendi goal for Sporting was ruled out by VAR for an offside against Viktor Gyökeres.
The result marks a strong response for Mikel Arteta’s side following consecutive domestic cup losses to Manchester City and Southampton. Arsenal now head into next week’s second leg at the Emirates Stadium as heavy favorites to reach back-to-back Champions League semi-finals for the first time in the club’s history.
