Arsenal vs Porto

Champions League

Arsenal face the daunting task of reversing a 1-0 deficit against Porto in their Champions League last-16 clash at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday. Mikel Arteta's side suffered a late blow in the first leg, conceding a stunning goal from Galeno after holding out for a draw. Despite their recent high-scoring victories in the Premier League, Arsenal failed to register a shot on target in the first leg, highlighting their uncharacteristic lack of attacking prowess in Europe.

However, buoyed by their resurgence in the domestic league, where they currently lead the table, Arteta's men are determined to avoid an eighth successive Champions League exit at this stage. They'll need to find the winning formula against a Porto side that has shown resilience in the competition, albeit struggling historically in English territory.

Porto, on the other hand, arrive with confidence following impressive victories in their domestic league, including a commanding win over Benfica. Despite missing key players due to injury, including Mehdi Taremi in the first leg, Porto will look to capitalize on their first-leg advantage and secure passage to the quarter-finals.

In terms of team news, Arsenal may have to cope without Gabriel Martinelli and Takehiro Tomiyasu due to injury concerns, while Porto's defensive options are also depleted. However, the return of key players like Taremi for Porto and Oleksandr Zinchenko for Arsenal could sway the outcome of the match.

Both teams are expected to field strong lineups, with Arsenal likely to start with Raya in goal and Porto relying on the experienced Pepe to anchor their defense. The battle at the Emirates promises to be intense as both sides vie for a spot in the next round of the Champions League.