Arsenal Player Ratings: Raya Shines, Saliba Struggles in Thrilling Match
In a thrilling match against Porto, Arsenal emerged victorious and secured their spot in the Champions League quarter-finals. The game showcased some exceptional performances from the Arsenal players, with David Raya stealing the show with his penalty saves. Let’s take a closer look at how each player fared in this exciting encounter.
David Raya – 10
David Raya had a relatively quiet game, with Porto’s few long-range shots posing little threat to him. He displayed calmness on the ball and consistent distribution. However, it was during the penalty shootout that he truly shone. Raya made two outstanding saves, displaying nerves of steel and ultimately sending his team through to the quarter-finals.
Ben White – 7
Ben White seemed to struggle to find his rhythm in the first half, failing to establish a telepathic connection with Bukayo Saka. He also had difficulty getting involved in attacking positions as he had done in previous matches. However, he improved in the second half and put in a solid performance overall.
William Saliba – 6
William Saliba, at just 22 years old, seemed to show some nerves on such a big stage. He made some questionable decisions, heading long balls into dangerous areas instead of taking a more composed approach. Saliba also picked up a needless yellow card in the 38th minute, further adding to his struggles.
Gabriel – 7
Gabriel displayed resilience alongside his partner, who was on a yellow card for most of the match. However, he was not as effective as usual in attacking set-pieces, an area where he has excelled this season.
Jakub Kiwior – 8
Playing in an unnatural position, Jakub Kiwior once again put in a solid display. His positioning and covering were superb, including a crucial goal-saving tackle in his own box. Kiwior’s performances have made him Arsenal’s first-choice left-back, a role he has embraced with confidence.
Jorginho – 7
Jorginho brought steel, experience, and composure to the midfield. He played a vital role in the first half when Arsenal were being frustrated both in and out of possession. However, as the game wore on, Jorginho appeared tired, leading Mikel Arteta to substitute him at the right time.
Declan Rice – 8
Declan Rice showcased his relentless energy throughout the match, tirelessly galloping from box to box. Although he had limited opportunities to score, Rice displayed leadership qualities when Arsenal needed it most.
Martin Odegaard – 8
Martin Odegaard seemed even more fired up than usual, pressing tirelessly and creating opportunities for his teammates. His beautifully weighted assist led to Leandro Trossard’s goal. Odegaard was unlucky not to score himself in the second half due to a controversial foul ruling.
Bukayo Saka – 7
Despite being targeted by Porto’s aggressive tackles from the start, Bukayo Saka used his blistering pace to wreak havoc down the right flank. He found more success in threatening the goal as the game progressed. However, Saka was wasteful in front of goal, missing crucial chances.
Kai Havertz – 7
Kai Havertz put in a lot of effort up top, doing the dirty work for his team. He almost scored a goal to make it 2-0 but was judged to have pushed Pepe in the back before Martin Odegaard converted.
Leandro Trossard – 7
Leandro Trossard initially seemed slightly off the pace but came alive just before halftime with a brilliant finish into the corner of the net. After that, he faded away but Mikel Arteta showed trust in him and kept him on the left.
Substitutes
Gabriel Jesus – 7
Gabriel Jesus made an immediate impact after coming on as a substitute, creating a great chance that was well saved by Porto’s goalkeeper. He looked lively and injected energy into Arsenal’s attack.
Oleksandr Zinchenko – 5
Oleksandr Zinchenko was brought on to bring composure and maturity to the team. However, he struggled to make an impact and made some clumsy mistakes in possession.
Eddie Nketiah – 6
Eddie Nketiah provided an exquisite pass to Bukayo Saka in the dying moments of injury time, setting up a golden opportunity that should have been converted into a goal.
In conclusion, Arsenal’s victory against Porto was hard-fought and required the players to dig deep. David Raya’s exceptional penalty saves and the overall composure displayed by the team were instrumental in securing their spot in the quarter-finals. The Gunners now eagerly await the revelation of their opponents in the next round.