3 standout players from Arsenal’s penalty shootout victory over FC Porto

Arsenal headed into the second leg of their Champions League tie trailing by one goal and needing a victory to progress from the round of 16 for the first time in 14 years. 

It wasn’t the dominant, free-flowing performance that some expected, but what it was was a very satisfying win. 

Much like the first leg, it was a very cagey affair with Porto looking to break up play as much as possible. Arsenal struggled to pass a stubborn defence and nerves had already begun to rise around the stadium. That was until the 41st minute when Leandro Trossard finished off a beautiful Martin Odeggard pass to level the tie on aggregate.

The Gunners had the ball in the net again in the second half, but the goal was ruled out after a Kai Havertz foul. Despite this, it was a lovely finish by the skipper Odegaard. The game headed into extra time with little chances and eventually, penalties came calling.

Arsenal netted all four of their spot-kicks while David Raya saved two Porto penalties to spark wild celebrations and send Arsenal to the Champions League quarter-finals.

3 standout players from Arsenal’s penalty shootout victory over FC Porto

On a jubilant night, here are three players who shone above the rest.

1. David Raya

David Raya was a divisive signing when he was brought in to replace fan-favourite Aaron Ramsdale. His performance against Porto must finally silence the doubters and earn him the respect which he has deserved all along.

The Spaniard’s two huge saves in the penalty shootout are the reason that Arsenal are through to the next round, make no mistake about that. But it was not just his performance in the shootout that deserves plaudits.

Although not called upon often, Raya was up for the task when his goal was threatened, making three saves to keep the clean sheet and make sure Arsenal stayed in the game. His distribution was also top-notch once again, achieving 32 out of 44 accurate passes.

Raya was vital to the win and will rightly take the headlines for his performance.

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