Arsenal Thrash Sporting 5-1 in Champions League for Biggest Away Win in 21 Years

Posted : 27 November 2024

Arsenal secured a commanding 5-1 victory over Sporting Lisbon at the Estadio Jose Alvalade on Tuesday, marking their biggest away win in the Champions League in 21 years. Bukayo Saka played a pivotal role, scoring once and providing an assist as Arsenal dominated their hosts.

The Gunners were in full control from the start, with Gabriel Martinelli putting them ahead early, followed by goals from Kai Havertz and Gabriel before halftime, leaving Sporting struggling to keep pace.

The Portuguese side briefly threatened after the break when Goncalo Inacio pulled a goal back for Sporting, but Saka restored Arsenal's three-goal lead with a coolly taken penalty.

Leandro Trossard added a fifth goal to complete the rout, securing Arsenal’s first 5-1 away win in the Champions League since their victory over Inter Milan in 2003. The win moved Arsenal up to seventh in the standings, tied with Sporting on 10 points, but ahead on goal difference.

Saka reflected on the tough challenge posed by Sporting, acknowledging their strong home record, which had seen them unbeaten at the Estadio Jose Alvalade for 13 months.

However, Saka remained confident in his team's ability to perform, emphasizing their belief in overcoming the challenge and their desire to improve with every match. "I am proud of all the boys," he said, optimistic about Arsenal's future.

Arsenal's performance in Lisbon was marked by their dominance, particularly on the right wing. Both of their first two goals came from swift attacks down that side.

Jurrien Timber’s low cross allowed Martinelli to tap in at the back post for the opener, while Saka’s run and pass into the box set up Havertz for the second. Despite some pressure from Sporting, including a strong save from Arsenal’s goalkeeper David Raya to deny Geovany Quenda, Arsenal continued to press their advantage.

The second half saw a shift in momentum as Sporting mounted a brief response. A corner from Francisco Trincao was volleyed in by Inacio, offering the home side a glimmer of hope. However, Arsenal regained control when Ødegaard was fouled in the box, allowing Saka to score from the penalty spot.

Trossard’s header wrapped up the victory after a parried shot from goalkeeper Franco Israel. Sporting's coach João Pereira admitted that his side's poor start, including the early goal conceded, was ultimately their downfall.

Arsenal Thrash Sporting 5-1 in Champions League for Biggest Away Win in 21 Years

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