Arsenal could rely on a one-goal lead to qualify for the Champions League semi-finals against Atletico Madrid after a goalless draw against Sporting at the Emirates.
The Gunners hope to bounce back from defeat at Bournemouth at the weekend, with manager Mikel Arteta saying he and his Arsenal team are “in spirit” and “not afraid of anything” heading into the game.
However, Arsenal, who managed just one shot on target in a tense game against the Emirates, did not have much confidence going into Sunday’s Premier League championship match against Manchester City, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Arteta will see the draw as a positive result as Arsenal qualify for back-to-back Champions League semi-finals for the first time in the club’s history as they prepare for a trip to the Etihad.
Having lost three of their last four games, there was a clear lack of confidence at the Emirates, which led to a shaky start throughout the match. Sporting looked like the more likely of the two teams, but they came closest just before half-time when Genny Katamo hit the post.
After the break, Sporting smelled blood again but could not muster anything to seriously challenge David Raya, who personified Arsenal’s nerve. The Portuguese side denied several chances from the Spanish stopper.
The result will not be of much concern to Arteta heading into the weekend, but he will be anxiously awaiting the prognosis of Noni Madueke, who collapsed clutching his knee following a challenge from Pedro Goncalves. Max Daumann, who came on as a substitute for the Arsenal winger, could be an option if Madueke falls ill at the weekend and joins the growing injured list.
Arteta: History-making Champions League ‘big win’ for Arsenal
Use Chrome Browser for a more accessible video player
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was in good spirits after leading his team to the Champions League semi-finals after defeating Sporting.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta told TNT Sports.
“This is a very big moment. In 140 years of our history, this is the first time that we have reached the (Champions League) semi-finals in consecutive years. To be part of those four teams is very special. We have to win it. It took a lot of effort. A huge thank you to the players.”
“It was always going to be that way (difficult games). There were moments in the first half where we probably should have scored. There are moments where we have to be better when we have the ball. To control more, dominate more and finish more actions.”
“Our actions, our attributes, our effort – the team is outstanding and that’s what gets you through.”
Arteta praises Rice and updates Madueke
Asked if he was in the spirit of his pre-match call, Arteta said: “Yes, 100 per cent. Especially in difficult situations, when the ball is handed to you, in a situation that is not very similar to ours.”
“How motivated everyone is. Declan was devastated yesterday. He didn’t have a chance to play today and he wasn’t feeling well at all today. The players are all doing their best to contribute. It’s about doing your best.”
Asked for an update on Noni Madueke’s injury, Arteta added: “I don’t know, but there was something in his knee so we had to take him off.”
