Arsenal secured their spot in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals for the third consecutive season with a professional and clinical 2-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen at the Emirates Stadium. Following a tense 1-1 draw in Germany, the Gunners turned on the style in North London to progress 3-1 on aggregate.
The breakthrough came in the 36th minute from a moment of pure individual brilliance. Eberechi Eze took Leandro Trossard's pass on the edge of the box, controlled it with his left, swivelled, and launched a rocket with his right past Janis Blaswich into the top corner. His first goal in the Champions League, and one worthy of any European stage.
"We were a threat from every angle, their 'keeper maintained them in the game I think, and we needed a magical moment from Ebs to score a wonderful goal, a wonderful strike, to give us the lead," said Arteta.
The match was put beyond doubt in the 63rd minute. Declan Rice, once again a colossus in the heart of midfield, stepped out to take control of a loose pass, strode forward and arrowed a low right-footed shot just inside the post.
Eze and Rice both scoring made this the first Champions League match with two English scorers for Arsenal since October 2016, when Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain did it against Ludogorets.
Leverkusen attempted to fight back, but William Saliba and Gabriel were flawless at the back and David Raya had a relatively quiet night.
The final whistle sparked celebrations as the Gooners look forward to a quarter-final clash against Sporting CP. With the Carabao Cup final just days away, this was the perfect momentum builder.
Man of the Match: Eberechi Eze. That opening goal changed the complexion of the tie and showcased why he is one of the most exciting talents at the club.
Image Credits: https://www.arsenal.com/news/gallery-43-best-snaps-leverkusen-win