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Havertz' late strike seals arsenal victory in lisbon

Published on 13/04/2026 08:27 in animals • Rob Burgess

Kai Havertz’s stoppage-time goal delivered a desperately needed 1-0 victory for Arsenal against Sporting Lisbon, snatching a crucial Champions League quarter-final first-leg win in a tense encounter.

Early drama, raya’s heroics

David Raya proved instrumental early on, denying Maxi Araujo with a stunning, acrobatic save – a moment that instantly shifted the momentum. He then followed up with a double stop late in the match, further solidifying Arsenal’s precarious grip on the tie. Arteta’s decision to recall Raya from the bench after recent cup defeats clearly paid dividends.

Sporting’s dominance – initially

Sporting’s dominance – initially

Sporting, boasting an impressive home record of sixteen consecutive victories, including five in the Champions League, started aggressively. Ousmane Diomande’s defence-splitting pass set up Araujo for a thunderous drive that Raya brilliantly deflected off the crossbar. The hosts threatened frequently, testing Raya's resolve repeatedly.

A narrow escape

Arsenal weathered an early storm, struggling to penetrate Sporting's resolute defense. Noni Madueke’s corner narrowly grazed the woodwork, and Odegaard’s follow-up sailed wide. However, the Gunners' resilience, particularly Raya's exceptional performance, ensured they remained in contention.

Var intervenes

A moment of VAR intervention cruelly denied Arsenal an early lead, with Noni Madueke’s corner resulting in an offside call against Gyokeres. Arteta’s team visibly deflated momentarily, but quickly regrouped. The disallowed goal highlighted the razor-thin margins in European football.

Havertz seals the deal

With four minutes remaining, Martinelli’s long-range effort was expertly saved by Rui Silva. Then, in the 93rd minute, a swift counter-attack culminated in Martinelli playing a sublime through ball to an unmarked Kai Havertz, who coolly slotted the ball past Silva – a moment of brilliance that secured a vital victory for Arsenal. Arteta’s side now heads to the Emirates with a slender, but crucial, advantage.