UEFA Champions League • FT
Arsenal
Sporting CPEnglandSeason 2025-2026Round 125
Arsenal secured their place in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for the second consecutive season after a tense 0–0 draw against Sporting CP on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Having won the first leg 1–0 in Portugal, the Gunners’ primary objective was to manage their lead and avoid defensive lapses.
Despite several nervy moments, they succeeded in keeping their eighth clean sheet of the European campaign, progressing 1–0 on aggregate. The match was a tactical battle of attrition rather than an offensive showcase.
Sporting CP nearly leveled the aggregate score in the 42nd minute when Geny Catamo latched onto a cross from Maximiliano Araújo, but his volley rattled the post with David Raya beaten. Arsenal had their own chances to put the tie beyond doubt, most notably in the 83rd minute when substitute Leandro Trossard saw a header strike the woodwork.
Sporting almost forced extra time with the final kick of the game, but João Simões' effort hit the side netting. The result sets up a massive semi-final clash for Arsenal against Atletico Madrid, starting on April 29.