Arsenal’s Champions League marketing campaign has been emphatic, and their 7-1 thrashing of PSV Eindhoven within the first leg of this last-16 tie all however secured their place within the quarter-finals. Whereas historical past tells us that no crew has overturned a six-goal deficit on this competitors, Mikel Arteta is just not taking something as a right.
The Gunners have been ruthless in Eindhoven, breaking ahead with precision and punishing each defensive lapse. They turned the primary crew to attain seven targets in an away Champions League knockout match, a document that underlined their rising European credentials.
But, regardless of the scoreline, Arsenal weren’t excellent. Ismael Saibari rattled the crossbar from shut vary, and Myles Lewis-Skelly narrowly averted a second yellow earlier than being substituted. The ultimate rating flattered Arsenal, but it surely additionally showcased their potential to capitalise on errors.
Wednesday’s second leg on the Emirates must be a formality, . “We now have to earn it,” he stated. “Every part went in the proper course for us within the first sport, however we have now to ensure it goes that manner once more.”
A win wouldn’t simply safe passage to the quarter-finals but in addition mark Arsenal’s fifth consecutive residence victory in Europe with out conceding. It may additionally see them equal a document set by Manchester Metropolis in 2018-19 by turning into solely the second English crew to attain 10 targets throughout a two-legged Champions League tie.
Arsenal’s weekend draw with Manchester United served as a reminder that they’re nonetheless a piece in progress. Their assault lacked fluidity, and it took a late strike from Declan Rice to salvage some extent. With the Premier League title race slipping away, European success is turning into much more vital.
Arteta has dismissed solutions that Arsenal ought to prioritise the Champions League over home ambitions. “We’re going to hold on preventing to win each sport,” he insisted. “Success doesn’t rely on us, however we are able to management our personal performances.”
Rotation is probably going, with Gabriel Martinelli set for extra minutes as he continues his restoration. The supervisor might also look to provide alternatives to younger gamers if the sport state permits. “Every time we have now the chance to say thanks or to provide minutes, we are going to do,” he stated.
PSV, in the meantime, are enjoying for delight. Their 2-1 win over Heerenveen ended a three-game dropping streak, however their European journey is all however over. They haven’t saved an away clear sheet within the Champions League since 2016, and Arsenal’s firepower will make that streak tough to finish.
For Arsenal, that is greater than a routine second leg. It’s a probability to take care of momentum, construct confidence, and reinforce their credentials as real contenders on the European stage.