LONDON – Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has pledged a stronger performance in the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie against Bayer Leverkusen, promising to “finish the job” at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners salvaged a 1-1 draw in Germany on Thursday, March 12, 2026, thanks to a late penalty from Kai Havertz, but face an uphill battle to reach the quarter-finals.
The first leg at the BayArena saw Arsenal fall behind to Robert Andrich’s goal shortly after halftime, marking the first time they’ve trailed in this Champions League campaign. A remarkable run of eight consecutive wins in the league phase had built significant momentum for Arteta’s side, but Leverkusen proved a stern test on the road. Havertz, returning to his former club, converted a penalty in the 89th minute after Noni Madueke was fouled, securing a valuable, if hard-fought, draw.
“It’s a reminder of how difficult it is to win against any opponent in this competition and especially away from home,” Arteta said, as reported by ESPN. “There’s a large factor there. Then you realize what we’ve done by winning eight games in this competition [in the league phase], because that’s really hard, and it hadn’t been done before.”
Havertz’s Late Strike Keeps Arsenal’s Hopes Alive
The match at the BayArena was a tightly contested affair, with both sides creating opportunities. Arsenal were without captain Martin Odegaard due to injury, which Arteta acknowledged impacted their attacking fluidity. The Gunners struggled to break down a resolute Leverkusen defense for much of the game, relying on a late surge and a controversial penalty decision to secure the draw.
The penalty, awarded after Madueke went down in the area, was met with protests from the Leverkusen players, but the decision stood after a VAR review. Havertz, who spent several years with Leverkusen before moving to Chelsea and then Arsenal, calmly slotted the ball home, sending the traveling Arsenal supporters into raptures. The goal was particularly poignant given Havertz’s history with the club.
Arteta Expects Improved Execution in London
Looking ahead to the second leg on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, Arteta emphasized the need for improved execution from his team. “The level of execution has to be better, and it will be better in the second leg,” he stated. “We will adjust a few things, and yes, we will keep moving forward.”
The second leg at the Emirates Stadium presents Arsenal with a significant opportunity to progress to the quarter-finals. Having secured an away goal, the Gunners will be favorites to win the tie on home soil, but they will need to overcome Leverkusen’s defensive solidity and improve their attacking output. The match promises to be a captivating encounter, with a place in the last eight of the Champions League at stake.
The draw at Leverkusen ended Arsenal’s perfect record in this season’s Champions League, having won all eight of their group stage matches. However, Arteta remains confident that his team can learn from the experience and deliver a stronger performance in the return leg. The manager will likely focus on improving Arsenal’s creativity in the final third and ensuring they are more clinical in front of goal.
Leverkusen’s Andrich Escapes Early Dismissal
The first leg wasn’t without its moments of controversy. Bayer Leverkusen’s Robert Andrich was fortunate to remain on the pitch after receiving a yellow card in the opening seconds for a foul on Viktor Gyokeres. He then committed another body check on Gyokeres shortly after, escaping a second yellow card and potential dismissal. Referee Halil Umut Meler’s decision not to send Andrich off sparked debate among pundits and fans alike.
Arsenal will need to capitalize on their home advantage and exploit any weaknesses in the Leverkusen defense. The Gunners’ attacking options, including Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz, will be crucial in unlocking the Leverkusen backline. The midfield battle will also be key, with Declan Rice and Jorginho tasked with controlling possession and dictating the tempo of the game.
The second leg is set to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams vying for a place in the Champions League quarter-finals. Arteta’s promise of improvement suggests Arsenal are determined to finish the job and continue their pursuit of European glory. Fans can expect a high-stakes match filled with drama, intensity, and tactical intrigue at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal’s next confirmed match is the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie against Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at the Emirates Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM GMT (3:00 PM EST). Stay tuned to Archysport for comprehensive coverage of the match, including team news, tactical analysis, and live updates.
Related reading
