LEVERKUSEN, Germany — Mikel Arteta has promised that Arsenal will enhance their performance and “finish it in London” following a tense 1-1 draw against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League.
A late penalty from substitute Kai Havertz in the 89th minute canceled out Robert Andrich’s header just after halftime in the round-of-16 first leg.
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The Gunners struggled for much of the match in Germany. After Gabriel Martinelli hit the crossbar early on, Arsenal could only muster two shots on target throughout the game, leaving them vulnerable to an upset.
However, after Havertz’s penalty, Arsenal enters the return leg at the Emirates Stadium next Tuesday as strong favorites to advance to the quarterfinals for the third consecutive year, with Arteta acknowledging the need for a better performance.
“This is a reminder of how challenging it is to win against any opponent in this competition, especially on the road,” he said during a post-match press conference.
“We recognize the immense achievement of winning eight games during the group stage; it’s something no one else has accomplished.”
“Understanding the game’s importance and the opponent’s challenge, we must capitalize on the opportunity in London,” he added.
“The level of execution must certainly be better, and I believe it will be in the second leg. We’ll make some adjustments and move forward.”
Arteta also commended Havertz for his composure under pressure against his former team. The 26-year-old spent a decade at Leverkusen, beginning his career there at age 10 before transferring to Chelsea in 2020 and then to Arsenal in 2023.
Before the match, Havertz received a framed photograph commemorating his time at Leverkusen and was warmly welcomed onto the pitch when he replaced Viktor Gyökeres with 16 minutes left to play.
“Football has its unique moments, and returning here after so long, having been so integral to this club, to score such a vital goal is significant,” Arteta noted.
Havertz mentioned that his familiarity with the BayArena helped him execute the penalty kick.
“I know this stadium well and have taken many penalties from this spot,” he stated.
“The time between the penalty being awarded and the kick felt like an eternity. Ultimately, you have to stay mentally focused in those crucial moments.”
Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand expressed disappointment over the penalty decision made by Turkish referee Umut Meler after a challenge on Malik Tillman against Noni Madueke.
“I don’t believe it was a penalty,” he commented. “Sometimes, the referee shouldn’t blow the whistle and should check with VAR first, ensuring it’s a completely secure decision. If he whistles, it should be a clear and obvious mistake to be overturned.”