Arsenal snatched a dramatic late victory in Lisbon on Tuesday, but the performance left more questions than answers. A 91st-minute header from Kai Havertz secured a 1-0 win over Sporting CP in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal, providing a vital result after recent cup exits.

However, the manner of the win was far from convincing. For 90 minutes, the Gunners struggled to create meaningful chances, registering a mere 0.16 expected goals. It was a classic, if nervy, smash-and-grab performance on the European stage.

Manager Mikel Arteta will undoubtedly be relieved with the result and the clean sheet, which gives his side a crucial advantage heading back to the Emirates. The late winner exemplifies the resilience and never-say-die attitude he has instilled in the squad, a trait as important as any technical skill when chasing trophies.

While the performance lacked their usual attacking fluency, securing an away win in a Champions League knockout tie is a significant achievement. All focus now shifts to the return leg in London, where Arsenal will aim to control the game from the start and book their place in the semifinals.