Arsenal has defeated FC Porto decisively in the second of leg of the knockout stage and has secured a place in the last 8 of UEFA Champions League 2009-10. The match took place at the Emirates Stadium and Wenger’s side had to overcome a deficit of 1-2 from the first leg. From the start of the match, Arsenal was always dominating and they sustained the pressure right through the end of the match. The absence of captain Cesc Fabregas was never felt because of perhaps impressive performance of Nasri and Arshavin. At half time, the Gunners were leading by 2-0.
The first goal came very early at the 9th minute. Nicklas Bendtner scored the goal but much credit should go to Arshavin. Arshavin can surely claim perhaps all the credit for the second goal that was again scored by Nicklas Bendtner in the 25 minute.
In the second half, Arsenal kept on pushing and Samir Nasri scored the best goal of the match on 63 minute. He dazzled 3 defenders of FC Porto and it was a beautiful goal to enjoy for the spectators. Arshavin also assisted in the 4th goal that was scored by Eboue in the 66th minute. The fifth goal came from a penalty in the 90th minute and Nicklas Bendtner did not make any mistake and scored his first hattrick in Arsenal career.
It was a good come back match for Nicklas Bendtner. His bad performance on Saturday against Burnley on Saturday drew a lot of criticism. However, the fans were very happy with his performance of tonight.
Arshavin was in sublime form. He assisted 3 of the four goals of the match. He was just unlucky that he could not get any goal tonight.