Leverkusen, Germany – Kai Havertz returned to haunt his former club, scoring a late penalty to secure a 1-1 draw for Arsenal against Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie. The match, played at a vibrant BayArena on Tuesday, saw Robert Andrich grant Leverkusen the lead shortly after halftime, but Havertz’s 89th-minute spot-kick ensured the Gunners head home with a valuable result.
The draw, while not a victory, positions Arsenal as favorites to advance to the quarterfinals for the third consecutive year. Leverkusen, who topped their group, proved a formidable opponent, showcasing a strong defensive structure and relentless energy throughout the contest. The result snapped Arsenal’s perfect record in the Champions League this season, having won all eight of their group stage matches.
“I’m happy to be on the scoresheet and to have gotten the goal,” Havertz told DAZN after the match. “Of course, I’m sorry for Leverkusen, but I’m pleased. We’re happy to have gotten the draw in the end.”
The first half saw a cagey affair, with both teams probing for openings. Arsenal almost took the lead in the 19th minute when Gabriel Martinelli’s powerful shot crashed against the crossbar. Leverkusen responded with a determined effort, displaying a willingness to attack when opportunities arose.
Bayer Leverkusen started the second half with immediate intent, and were rewarded almost instantly. Just ten seconds after the restart, Martin Terrier headed towards goal, forcing a save from Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. From the resulting corner, Robert Andrich rose highest to head the ball into the net, sending the BayArena into raptures. The goal was a testament to Leverkusen’s set-piece prowess, something Arsenal had been aware of heading into the match.
Arsenal struggled to break down Leverkusen’s organized defense for much of the second half. Manager Mikel Arteta responded by introducing fresh legs, including Kai Havertz, who received a warm reception from the Leverkusen faithful – a nod to his successful time with the club.
The decisive moment arrived in the 89th minute. A late surge forward from Arsenal saw Noni Madueke brought down in the penalty area by Malik Tillman. After a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty, and Havertz stepped up to calmly slot the ball past Janis Blaswich, leveling the score. The late equalizer silenced the BayArena and swung the tie in Arsenal’s favor.
Leverkusen manager Kasper Hjulmand felt the penalty decision was questionable. “It’s very, very little,” Andrich said via DAZN regarding the foul. Despite the disappointment, he remained optimistic, adding, “But we still have a chance next week.”
Prior to the match, Hjulmand acknowledged Arsenal’s quality, stating they were “perhaps the best team in Europe” and “of course the large favorite.” However, he emphasized his team’s determination not to be intimidated. His side certainly lived up to that billing, displaying a level of commitment and tactical discipline that troubled Arsenal for large periods of the game.
Havertz’s return to the BayArena was a poignant one. He joined Bayer Leverkusen as a ten-year-aged and developed into a Bundesliga star before moving to Chelsea in 2020. The warm welcome he received from the Leverkusen fans underscored his enduring connection with the club.
The second leg will be played at the Emirates Stadium in London, where Arsenal will look to complete the job and secure their place in the Champions League quarterfinals. Leverkusen will undoubtedly travel to London with belief, knowing they came close to securing a first-leg victory. The tie remains delicately poised, promising a thrilling return leg.
Arsenal will need to improve their attacking fluency if they are to break down Leverkusen’s defense again. The Gunners’ midfield lacked its usual spark, and they struggled to create clear-cut chances for much of the match. Havertz’s goal provides a boost, but Arteta will demand a more dominant performance in the second leg.
For Leverkusen, maintaining their defensive solidity will be crucial. They frustrated Arsenal for long stretches of the game, and their ability to disrupt the Gunners’ attacking rhythm will be key to their chances of progressing. They will also need to be more clinical in front of goal, having created a few promising opportunities that went begging.
The Champions League tie is far from over, and both teams have plenty to play for in the second leg. Arsenal will be confident of finishing the job on home soil, but Leverkusen have already proven they are capable of causing an upset.
The next confirmed checkpoint is the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16 tie between Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen, scheduled for March 18th at the Emirates Stadium.
What are your thoughts on the match? Share your predictions for the second leg in the comments below!
