David Raya was the hero as Arsenal beat FC Porto 4-2 on penalties to reach their first Champions League quarter-final in 14 years.
Leandro Trossard’s first-half goal cancelled Porto’s first-leg lead but Arsenal were frustrated by their opponents and taken to extra time after a second from Martin Odegaard was disallowed.
There was no winner in extra time, forcing the game into shootouts with Odegaard and Kai Havertz converting Arsenal’s first two penalties before David Raya produced a stunning fingertip save to nudge Wendell’s kick onto the post.
Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice also scored, before Raya saved again from Galeno to send Arsenal through to their first quarter-final since 2010.
The hosts started the match strongly, controlling possession, but they struggled to create many clear chances. Porto adapted well to their opponents and felt comfortable on the field, defending resolutely and posing a threat on the counterattack.
In the latter part of the first half, Arsenal managed to break through Porto’s solid defence unexpectedly, opening the scoring with a fine goal. A superb combination ended with Trossard’s precise finish, following an equally elegant pass from Odegaard.
Porto remained unperturbed in the second half, despite Arsenal’s increased pressure. The Gunners pushed forward and intensified their attacks, but for a long time, they failed to create anything truly dangerous in front of Costa’s goal.
After the 80th minute, two chances, one each for Jesus and Saka, were denied by the visitors’ goalkeeper with excellent reactions. In the end, the Portuguese team held firm, and the game went into extra time.
The two additional 15-minute periods didn’t produce any goals, and the participants for the next stage were determined in a penalty shootout. Arsenal were more accurate from the penalty spot. Arsenal advanced to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals for the first time since 2010.
