AfriPulse
March 09, (THEWILL) – The Europa League last 16 first leg between Sporting CP and Arsenal ended in a 2-2 draw at Lisbon, on Thursday night, setting up an exciting clash in the return leg at Emirates Stadium.
William Saliba’s header gave Arsenal a first-half lead, but the Portuguese side responded in style through Goncalo Inacio and Paulinho. An own goal from Hidemasa Morita ensured the match ended all square.
Although Arsenal controlled the game, Sporting CP had their moments, with Pedro Goncalves coming close to scoring in the opening stages, but it was Saliba, who found the net first. Oleksandr Zinchenko had a chance to double their lead, but his free-kick was blocked by the Sporting wall, with a second attempt needing a brilliant save from Sporting’s goalkeeper, Antonio Adan.
The match was a thrilling contest, with both teams missing out on chances to seal the win. Arsenal had the chance to take control of the game, but Sporting responded in style, demonstrating their attacking prowess to the English side. It was a slow start for the Gunners, who were lucky to escape with a draw, but they will be hoping to come out all guns blazing in the second leg.
Arsenal will be feeling confident heading into that fixture, knowing that the advantage will be on their side as hosts. The aggregate score-line essentially makes it a winner takes all one-off at the Emirates Stadium. Before the return leg, Sporting CP will host Boavista in the league, while Arsenal travel to Fulham.
Source: TheWillNigeria | Read More
