Arsenal's Champions League journey took a crucial step forward with a dramatic 1-0 victory away to Sporting CP, and manager Mikel Arteta believes the hard-fought win is a massive confidence booster for his squad.

In a tense quarter-final first leg, it was Kai Havertz who emerged as the hero, scoring a stoppage-time winner to give the Gunners a precious advantage heading back to the Emirates Stadium. This result was a vital response for a team coming off back-to-back cup exits, silencing some of the recent doubts about their trophy-winning mentality.

Arteta was quick to provide perspective, reminding everyone of the bigger picture. His team currently sits nine points clear at the top of the Premier League, chasing a first domestic title in two decades, and now has one foot in the Champions League semi-finals for a second consecutive year.

"The demands from August are to win, win, win, and win," Arteta said. "If you don't, it's a disaster. But they need perspective, a big reminder of what we are as a team and the things that have brought us here."

The match also held personal significance for Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres, who faced his former club for the first time since his summer transfer. Arteta expressed his pleasure at seeing the Swedish international receive a warm reception from the Sporting fans at full-time, a testament to the player's impact and the club's culture.

With belief restored and a lead to protect, Arsenal's focus now shifts to securing their place in the final four, a feat that would mark another landmark in their impressive season.