Kai Havertz Salvages Late Draw for Arsenal Against Bayer Leverkusen

 

Arsenal's campaign in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 got off to a frustrating start as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Bayer Leverkusen at the BayArena. 

The clash between the sides was their first since the 2001/2002 season. Arsenal had the better of the group stage encounter, defeating the Germans 4-1 under former manager Arsene Wenger. Meanwhile, Leverkusen have not been impressive domestically, having been winless in their previous four Bundesliga games. 

Leverkusen kicked the game off brilliantly, with Christian Kofane's early shot testing David Raya. Arsenal gradually grew into the game, and Viktor Gyökeres' clever movement caused the Leverkusen defense trouble. However, it was the hosts who struck first, Andrich heading home Alejandro Grimaldo's cross to give Leverkusen the lead just before half-time.

As the game drew to a close, Noni Madueke bolted down the right and dazzled past two defenders, but he was bropped, gliding into the box. A penalty was awarded to Arsenal, and Kai Havertz converted the spot-kick. 

Having to share spoils gave Arsenal a lifetime to advance their course in the competition. They defeated the Germans in their previous meeting by 4-1 at Emirates Stadium in the Group stage game of the 2001/02 season. Arsenal will host the Germans in the second-leg tie at Emirates Stadium.

Overview 

It was a tough game for Arsenal. Leverkusen maintained a firm approach, avoiding needless spaces for Arsenal to penetrate. The clampdown on the wings rendered their box impervious to the attackers, even for the centre attackers like Eberechi Eze, who was later replaced by Gabriel Jesus. However, Madueke was relentless and drew a penalty from Malik Tillman's tackle. 

Mikel Arteta was able to contain the Germans by refreshing the legs. He replaced Bukayo Saka on the right with Madueke and replaced Eze with Gabriel Jesus, bolstering the attack against the Germans' resolute defense line.