Galeno’s goal in stoppage time gave Porto the lead in their first leg of their Champions League last-16 match, shocked Arsenal.
Highlights of the game: Porto Vs Arsenal
Galeno scored an incredible goal deep into stoppage time in Porto’s Champions League last-16 match on Wednesday, giving the team an unexpected 1-0 victory over Arsenal. The match was dull until the fifth minute of extra time, when the Brazilian winger curled an unbelievable attempt past David Raya to enthrall the Estadio Do Dragao audience.
Arsenal, who had scored 21 goals in their previous five Premier League games, was oddly quiet on offense and didn’t manage to generate a shot on goal the whole game.
Galeno gave Porto the advantage ahead of the second leg in London on March 12, and although they defended rather well, they may live to regret their lack of urgency.
Galeno stated, “I think the team deserves credit for that goal for everything they accomplished in the ninety minutes.” “We gave it our best on the field, played well, and defended effectively. We intend to strive for the same success in London as we did here. Like we usually do, we will attempt to remain steadfast and give it our all.
Having finished in the last 16 of their previous seven Champions League seasons, Arsenal is looking to advance to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2010.
Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, stated, “We had to manage the game better when you can’t win.” “We need to make a few adjustments since we lacked danger and aggression in the last portion of the game. We are capable of more.“
“If you want to be in the quarter-finals you have to beat your opponent and this is what we will have to do at the Emirates now.”
Also Read: Three goals from Man City helped them secure the lead in the first leg against Copenhagen.
Fortunately for Arsenal, Porto has a poor away record against English teams, having conceded 11 goals in three visits to the Emirates without ever scoring a goal. However, the thirty-time Portuguese winners will go with confidence.
Despite having possession throughout the game, Arteta’s team never really looked like scoring, with the exception of a few headers from corners by William Saliba and Kai Havertz.
Porto gained momentum and, despite a deft counterattack, managed to not take the lead in the twenty-first minute. Porto handled Arsenal’s attack with ease and silenced England forward Bukayo Saka. Thanks to the 40-year-old Pepe, who is the oldest player to participate in a Champions League knockout round.
Arsenal struggled to establish any rhythm against their cunning hosts in the second half, which was even less thrilling than the first. The best, however, was reserved for last when Galeno took advantage of a lost ball to go to the edge of the penalty area, looked up, and bent a shot past Raya. Declan Rice, an Arsenal midfielder, described it as “a kick in the teeth.” “We have to change our approach in the home leg and give it absolutely everything.”