Arsenal FC secured their place in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals after a convincing victory over Bayer Leverkusen, with goals from Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice proving decisive.
The London side progressed with a 3-1 aggregate win and will now face Sporting CP, who pulled off a comeback to knock out Bodo/Glimt in their tie.
Arsenal came into the match level on aggregate following a late penalty by Kai Havertz in the first leg, which ensured a 1-1 draw in Germany.
The Gunners started strongly, creating early chances, with Gabriel Magalhães testing Leverkusen goalkeeper Janis Blaswich from set-piece situations.
The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Eze produced a moment of quality, controlling the ball before firing a powerful half-volley past the goalkeeper to register his first Champions League goal.
Arsenal continued to control proceedings after the interval, and Rice extended the lead in the 63rd minute with a composed finish after capitalising on a loose clearance.
Manager Mikel Arteta later made several substitutions to manage player fitness ahead of a crucial domestic fixture against Manchester City.
The victory boosts Arsenal’s confidence as they prepare for the Carabao Cup final at Wembley Stadium.
Eze’s recent performances have been particularly notable, especially with captain Martin Ødegaard unavailable, adding depth to Arsenal’s attacking options.
Since taking charge in 2019, Arteta has overseen significant progress at the club, with Arsenal recording an impressive run of results in home Champions League matches.
With only a handful of defeats this season, the team is now focused on translating strong form into major trophies.
While Arsenal look ahead to their next challenge, Bayer Leverkusen will shift attention back to domestic league action against Heidenheim.
