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For the first time since 2016, a Champions League match went all the way to penalties, and Arsenal came out victors after a dramatic shootout
Arsenal had Spanish goalkeeper David Raya to thank for helping them reach the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League for the first time in 14 years after a nerve-racking penalty shootout helped the Gunners overcome Porto at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal clashed with Porto in a highly anticipated rematch following Porto's dramatic victory in the first-leg and the stakes were high as both teams vied for a spot in the next round of the competition.
How it happened
From the onset, Porto displayed a disciplined game-plan reminiscent of their approach in the first-leg encounter. They aimed to frustrate Arsenal and disrupt their rhythm, denying them clear opportunities. However, Porto themselves weren't shy to take risks, launching forward attacks and testing Arsenal's defense, with David Raya making a couple of crucial saves to keep his team in the game.
Despite Porto's resilience, Arsenal managed to break the deadlock through a moment of brilliance. A pinpoint pass from Martin Odegaard found Leandro Trossard in a dangerous position, who clinically finished to give the Gunners the lead, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Arsenal thought they had extended their lead when Odegaard struck from a loose ball, but their celebrations were cut short as the referee ruled out the goal, citing a foul on Pepe in the build-up. The decision left Arsenal frustrated but Porto relieved as they escaped conceding another goal.
As the clock ticked on, both teams continued to battle fiercely, each desperate to secure victory. Arsenal pushed forward in search of a decisive goal, while Porto remained resolute in defense, thwarting Arsenal's advances. Despite numerous attempts, neither team could find the breakthrough, leading the match into extra time.
Extra-time was a tense affair with both teams unwilling to give an inch. The Emirates Stadium reverberated with nervous energy as fans anxiously awaited a decisive moment that could tilt the balance in favor of either team. However, both defenses held firm, and the deadlock persisted.
As penalties loomed, the Gunners looked the more likely to score at the death, while Porto appeared to force the tie towards a shootout. A plan that would eventually backfire for the Portuguese.
In the ensuing shootout, Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya proved to be the difference between both teams, saving twice, first from Wendell, and then the decisive kick from Galeno to send Arsenal into the quarterfinals of the Champions League for the first time since 2010.
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