Arsenal started the match as clear favourites as Porto has a poor record against English clubs recently. Arsenal replaced injured Galls with Sol Campbell. Their defence was tested early by Porto. Arsenal goal keeper Fabianski who replaced injured Almunia, pushed the cross from Varela into his own net in the 11th minute.
Arsenal is finding it difficult to run their offense without Andre Arshavin and Robin van Persie. Bendtner was denied twice. Cesc Fabregas was closely marked to prevent him much time on ball. He was frustrated with so many fouls against him. Rosicky was the man who caused Porto trouble. Arsenal was soon level when Rosicky’s header found Campbell who headed into the net from close range. Rosicky’s shot was brilliantly saved by Porto goal keeper and the Arsenal was not awarded a penalty when he was brought down in the penalty area.
Fabianski made two saves and two horrendous mistakes in this game. The second mistake was childish as he caught a back pass from Sol Campbell inside the penalty box. It seems that controversies are part of referee Hansson as he allowed Porto players to take a quick free kick from the penalty area. It was him who refereed the controversial world cup qualifying match between France and Republic of Ireland. Arsenal showed school boy stuff defence as no defenders were in front of the ball as the free kick was taken. Fabianski did not even see it being taken and the through ball was connected by Falcao from an offside position to score Porto’s second goal.
Later the game became dull as Arsenal could not find any opening in Porto’s defence and Porto was interested only in counter attacking. Arsene Wenger was furious at referee’s decision to allow the free kick taken quickly and said it was an easier way to score than a penalty. Wenger’s trouble with his goal keepers is continuing and he will have to come up with a solution soon. Wenger will be hoping that some of his injured players will return before the second leg at the Emirates stadium.
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