Arsenal return to the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday evening for the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie against Porto aiming to overturn the 1-0 deficit.
Porto, currently unbeaten in their last six games, will undoubtedly pose a significant threat.
Their resolute defensive mid-block, coupled with dangerous counter-attacking capabilities, presents a stern challenge for Mikel Arteta’s men.
However, Arsenal can take heart from their recent domestic form.
They currently sit atop the Premier League table after a dramatic late victory over Brentford.
Kai Havertz bagged the winner to score his fourth goal in four games, the first time the German has scored as many goals in consecutive games.
Kai Havertz scores again 🎶#UCL pic.twitter.com/c72kV5pnKf
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 10, 2024
This momentum, combined with their title rivals faltering in a 1-1 draw on Sunday evening, could provide a crucial psychological boost.
Statistically, the outlook appears less optimistic. Arsenal have a historically poor record when losing the first leg of a Champions League knockout tie, winning only once in their previous ten attempts.
Nonetheless, that solitary victory came against Porto in the 2009-10 season, where a dominant 5-0 display at the Emirates overturned a 2-1 first-leg deficit.
The performance of Bukayo Saka could be instrumental in Arsenal’s quest for progression.
The young winger has been in scintillating form, scoring and assisting in his last three Champions League appearances at home.
Should he replicate this feat tomorrow evening, he would find himself level with Karim Benzema who is the only player to do so on four occasions in the competition.
The Emirates faithful will undoubtedly play a vital role in this crucial encounter.
A fast start and a clinical performance in front of goal are paramount for Arsenal to overcome the deficit and secure their place in the quarter-finals.
Tuesday’s clash is poised to be a tense and tightly contested affair.
While Porto’s defensive solidity should not be underestimated, Arsenal’s current form and home advantage offer a glimmer of hope.
The outcome hinges on their ability to convert possession into goals and silence the doubters. Back the home team and over 2.5 goals.
