Arsenal claimed victory as Mikel Arteta’s full-strength side thrashed Sporting 5-1 in Lisbon to boost their chances of automatic Champions League qualification.
Sporting once again started slowly against Premier League opposition in Europe, as they did against Manchester City under Ruben Amorim in their last game, but Arsenal did not let them down like their opponents did a few weeks ago.
Gabriel Martinelli celebrates its opening in Lisbon
Arsenal scored three goals in the first half through Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Gabriel to put the Gunners into an unassailable lead at the break, thanks in large part to an inspired Bukayo Saka who wreaked havoc down the right.
Sporting pulled a goal back less than three minutes after the restart, centre-back Goncalo Inacio turning a corner in front of the net, raising the prospect of a comeback, although those hopes lasted less than 20 minutes before Sacca’s penalty iced the game.
Sporting’s Goncalo Inacio pulled his side back from one
Substitute Leandro Trossard scored another eight minutes from time after Mikel Merino’s shot was saved by Sporting goalkeeper Franco Israel to put the result beyond doubt and move Arsenal into eighth on goal difference from the hosts.
Sporting fell apart in the first half, particularly on the left, where Jurien Timber crossed for Martinelli’s opener after 10 minutes, before Saka set up Havertz in the second half and Gabriel headed home Declan Rice’s corner for the third.
The home side’s revival was derailed after Saka restored their three-goal lead from the spot, only to see his captain Martin Odegaard cut down from behind by Sporting defender Ousmane Diomande, who was lucky not to receive a second yellow card.
Saka: This is where Arsenal belongs.
Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka, recognized as the best player of the match, told TNT Sports.
“We talked about it before the game. We know they’ve been a top team this season, but we believe in ourselves and we just had to be us.
“We were confident in the game. Everyone was top-notch and anyone could win this award (player of the match).
“I’m really proud of all the guys today. This is where we belong, so we showed the level we can play at and we have to keep playing like this.”
About his penalty. “It was important, but I didn’t really feel the pressure. I was confident.”
On playing with Martin Odegaard again. “He’s an incredible player. He came back today and you can see the big smile on my face.
“We have a chemistry, I enjoy playing with him. I’m glad he’s back and I hope he stays fit for the rest of the season.”
