FC Porto pulled off a stunning upset against Arsenal in the first leg of the Champions League last-16 match at Estadio do Dragao.
Galeno emerged as the hero for Porto, scoring a sensational last-minute goal that left Arsenal reeling. A 1-0 defeat it was.
Despite Arsenal’s recent success in the Premier League, they struggled to create chances in Portugal, failing to register a single shot on target for the first time in two years.
“When it’s 0-0 you look at the clock and it’s 93 minutes gone, if you can’t win the game, don’t lose it. It (the winner) was so frustrating, it was a whole mixture of play, to be honest with you,” said Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice.
Galeno had earlier missed two clear opportunities to score for Porto, but his late strike sealed the victory for the Portuguese side.
Although Arsenal had some chances from set pieces, they couldn’t capitalize on them, with players like William Saliba, Gabriel, and Kai Havertz unable to find the back of the net.
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As a result of this unexpected defeat, Mikel Arteta’s team now faces an uphill battle in the second leg on March 12, 2024, as they hope to advance to the quarter-finals.
“But it’s half-time, if you want to get to the quarter-finals, you have to beat your opponent. And that’s what we have to do at the Emirates now,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
The Gunners are next in action on Saturday, February 24, as they host Newcastle United in the Premier League.