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Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says win over Porto to reach Champions League quarter-finals was magic
Tue 12 Mar 2024 2029 EDT
By Emma Sanders
BBC Sport
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed a "magical" night as his side beat 10-man Porto 2-0 to reach the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in five years.
A stunning long-range strike from Bukayo Saka broke the deadlock in the first half before Granit Xhaka sealed the win late on.
The Gunners also had to thank goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale for a string of fine saves as they held on to their aggregate lead.
"It was a magical night," Arteta said. "The atmosphere was incredible and the players gave everything. We controlled the game from start to finish and created some really good chances."
"We knew it would be a tough match but we were up for the challenge. We showed great character and resilience to get the win."
Arsenal's victory was all the more impressive considering they were without several key players, including Thomas Partey, Kieran Tierney and Gabriel Jesus.
"We have a lot of injuries at the moment but the players who came in tonight showed that they are more than capable of playing at this level," Arteta said.
"It's a great sign for the future of this club."
Arsenal will now face Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals, with the first leg to be played at the Emirates Stadium on 5 April.
"Bayern Munich are a great team but we showed tonight that we can compete with the best," Arteta said.
"We will go into the game with confidence and we will give everything to reach the semi-finals."
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