Arsenal blows out of UEFA Cup last 8

Arsenal hosted Sporting Portugal in the second round of the UEFA Cup 1/8 final. Both teams failed to score in extra time after a 1-1 draw in regulation time, and the aggregate score went to penalties 3-3! Penalty shootout, Martinelli missed the penalty, Sporting Portugal finally advanced, Premier League leaders Arsenal out of the game, penalty shootout defeat, goodbye Arsenal, no UEFA Cup last 8.Maillot Arsenal 2023

With the second round being a home game, many fans were confident that Arsenal would advance. In the EPL this season, Arsenal have only lost at home to top tier giants like Manchester City, and it is clear that Sporting de Portugal's strength, for sure, cannot be compared to that of Manchester City. As long as they play properly, Arsenal will probably be able to beat their opponents to qualify.

But in the world of football, there is no shortage of surprises, and that was the case in this match. On their home turf, Arsenal took an early lead in the 19th minute thanks to Zaka's follow-up goal. Unfortunately, Arsenal couldn't capitalise on their chance to extend their advantage, which gave Sporting Portugal hope.

In the 19th minute, a long pass from Jorginho saw Martinelli cut into the box and his shot was blocked by Arden, but Zaka followed up with a shot to give Arsenal a 1-0 lead and 3-2 on aggregate!maillot haaland pas cher

In the 62nd minute, a misplaced pass by the Gunners midfielder was broken up and Pedro Gonçalves got the ball and fired a stunning shot straight into the net to bring Sporting Portugal level at 1-1, 3-3 on aggregate.

The teams were tied 1-1 for 120 minutes. It was a penalty shoot-out. Sporting Portugal scored all 5 penalties, while Arsenal's side, Martinelli, missed, and Arsenal were eventually eliminated 3-5 on penalties.