Kai Havertz scored a stoppage-time winner to give Arsenal a 1-0 victory over Sporting Lisbon in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals. Mikel Arteta's side arrived at the Jose Alvalade Stadium on Tuesday under pressure after consecutive defeats in the League Cup final and FA Cup quarterfinals, which had raised questions about their mental resilience.

Throughout the match, Arsenal struggled to find their rhythm and were largely outplayed in the first half, with Sporting creating several clear chances. Goalkeeper David Raya was instrumental in keeping the score level, making a full-stretch save to tip Maxi Araujo's shot onto the crossbar and later denying Geny Catamo from close range.

Arsenal's injury woes continued, with Jurrien Timber, Piero Hincapie, Eberechi Eze, and Bukayo Saka all unavailable, though Declan Rice returned to the lineup. Further setbacks occurred as Martin Odegaard and Leandro Trossard limped off with injuries, hampering the team's attacking options.

In the dying moments, substitute Gabriel Martinelli delivered a precise pass over the Sporting defence, and Havertz timed his run perfectly to slot past goalkeeper Rui Silva. The win gives Arsenal a narrow advantage heading into the second leg in north London on April 15, but significant improvements are needed if they are to challenge for their first Champions League title, given their inconsistent form and mounting injury list.

Source: www.aljazeera.com