Arsenal fought to a tense draw against Sporting in the second leg of their Champions League tie to earn a spot in the semi-finals against Atletico Madrid.
The Gunners started the match on the front foot but lacked quality in the final third and allowed their visitors to weather the early storm and swing momentum their way.
Arsenal struggled to create chances in the final third and were caught out a few times as a nervous tension descending on the Emirates stadium.
Sporting’s Geny Catamo had the chance of the half with a strike from the right side of the penalty area just before the half-time break and the attacked struck the far post with David Raya beaten.
The hosts came out of the blocks as the better side in the second half too, and they controlled proceedings for much of the final 45 minutes as Sporting struggled to create anything while Leandro Trossard hit the post and Ebere Eze and Gabriel Martinelli went close.
And in the end Arteta’s side did enough to prevent Sporting from threatening their lead, with the Gunners booking a second successive Champions League final – this one against Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid.
Follow all the latest reaction from the Emirates with our live blog below.
Arsenal v Sporting | Champions League live
- Arsenal fight to draw with Sporting to book place in Champions League semi-final
- Gunners will face Atletico Madrid in semi-finals
- Pundits believe Arsenal are underdogs ahead of crunch Premier League game against City
- 84' OFF THE POST! Trossard heads against woodwork [ARS 0-0 SPO, agg. 1-0]
- 45' OFF THE POST! Geny hits woodwork with volley [ARS 0-0 SPO, agg. 1-0]
Anxious Arsenal survive in Champions League but must snap out of troubling mindset
Wednesday 15 April 2026 22:38 , Chris WilsonIt didn’t feel like Arsenal had just qualified for only their second Champions League semi-final in 17 years. The final whistle came with overwhelming but cautious relief rather than ecstasy; the feeling that Arsenal had got away with one by the skin of their teeth, but next time they won’t be so lucky.
Had Joao Simoes 94th-minute effort crept a few inches to the left, this last-eight tie was heading to extra time. That would’ve been catastrophic for their physical state ahead of their biggest game of the season on Sunday. In their current mental state, Arsenal progression would not have been a safe bet.
Mikel Arteta made a rallying cry in which he asked Arsenal’s supporters to come to the Emirates not with their dinner, but with “pure fire” and “zero fear” for the visit of Sporting. Fans struggled to comply. There was less a fire in their bellies, more a collective knot.
Anxious Arsenal survive in Champions League but must snap out of troubling mindset
Arsenal’s clash with Manchester City will be decided by ‘moments’ and ‘mistakes’ says Joe Cole
07:30 , Chris WilsonFormer Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole claimed that this weekend’s Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester City will be decided by “mistakes” and “moments”, with Pep Guardiola’s side “absolutely the favourites” to win.
Arsenal currently have a six-point lead at the top of the Premier League though City have a game in hand, and they could cut the lead to just three points with a win at the Etihad this weekend.
While City have found form in recent weeks, with big wins over Liverpool and Chelsea, Arsenal have stumbled domestically, exiting the FA Cup at the hands of Southampton and losing in the league last weekend to Bournemouth.
Arsenal’s clash with Man City will be decided by ‘moments’ and ‘mistakes’
‘Who cares what people think?’: Declan Rice delighted with Arsenal’s Champions League progress
07:00 , Chris WilsonDeclan Rice was ‘delighted’ with how Arsenal reached a second Champions League semi-final in as many years despite a goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium against Sporting CP.
The Gunners had lost three of their last four fixtures and were knocked out of both domestic cup competitions and stumbled in the Premier League with a 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth meaning the pressure is mounting on Mikel Arteta’s side.
Arsenal are closing in on winning the Premier League title and will now face Atletico Madrid in the final four of the Champions League as the Gunners chase the two remaining trophies of the season.
Declan Rice delighted with Arsenal’s Champions League progress
Patrick Vieira backs ‘really important’ Declan Rice to drive Arsenal to silverware
06:00 , Chris WilsonFormer Arsenal captain, Patrick Vieira, believes that the club can shake off a poor run of form and still win silverware this season with midfielder Declan Rice a ‘really important’ leader for the team.
Arsenal have seen their hopes of winning a quadruple brutally deflated in recent games after defeats in the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup preceded a shock 2-1 loss to Bournemouth in the Premier League.
The results have seen the Gunners lose three of their last four games but they hold a slim 1-0 lead over Sporting CP after the first leg of their Champions League quarter-finals.
Patrick Vieira backs ‘really important’ Declan Rice to drive Arsenal to silverware
How seven Premier League teams could qualify for the Champions League after clinching fifth spot
05:00 , Chris WilsonThe Premier League could boast seven clubs in next season’s Champions League if all the right pieces fall into place – but now we know five will be guaranteed.
The extra place was sealed after Arsenal emerged 1-0 victors at Sporting in their quarter-final first leg, with Kai Havertz snatching a late winner in Lisbon.
It is the second consecutive year that the Premier League has earned an additional spot, with the English top flight at the pinnacle of the European Performance Standings.
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How seven Premier League teams could qualify for the Champions League
Atletico Madrid survive barrage from 10-man Barcelona to reach Champions League semi-finals
04:00 , Chris WilsonAtletico Madrid reached their first Champions League semi-final in nine years on Tuesday, squeezing past Barcelona 3-2 on aggregate despite a nerve-racking 2-1 home defeat that had the Metropolitano holding its breath until the final whistle.
Diego Simeone's side had done much of the heavy lifting with a 2-0 win at the Camp Nou in the first leg, and that cushion proved just enough to withstand an early Barca blitz as the visitors struck twice in the first half to level the tie.
Lamine Yamal capitalised on a Clement Lenglet error to open the scoring in the fourth minute, finishing neatly past goalkeeper Juan Musso after Ferran Torres set him up.
Atletico Madrid survive barrage from 10-man Barcelona to reach Champions League semis
The painful Liverpool decision created by Hugo Ekitike’s disastrous injury
03:00 , Chris WilsonMohamed Salah was the last man standing in front of the Kop, applauding them as they responded in kind. Or those who were left did, anyway, with Anfield’s most iconic stand half-empty. This was not how it was supposed to end, and yet, perhaps it was inevitable. There may have been memories of his Champions League nights with Liverpool flashing before his eyes: the evisceration of Roma in the 2018 semi-final, the epic comeback against Barcelona he watched while injured, the penalty against Tottenham in the final. Goals against Manchester City, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Inter.
Though not Paris Saint-Germain. Salah’s fifth and last appearance against them in a Liverpool shirt was as a replacement. PSG’s twin 2-0 wins meant there will be no valedictory victory in Budapest in May, no chance to bow out as Kevin Keegan and Graeme Souness did as a European champion. For Salah, and Andy Robertson, who also joined in 2017, their Liverpool careers in Europe can be split into two halves: they reached three Champions League finals in the first five seasons, no semi-final in the last four. Salah was an unused substitute in Paris last week, an energetic 12th man who was summoned earlier than Arne Slot expected on Tuesday.
The painful Liverpool decision created by Hugo Ekitike’s disastrous injury
The stark reality facing Liverpool after PSG cause Champions League deja vu
02:00 , Richard JollyDéjà vu all over again for Liverpool, eliminated by the French champions for a second successive season, but this time without the drama of penalties or the sense of what might have been. A Paris rematch brought the same scoreline as last week, another 2-0 win. Ousmane Dembele, who got an Anfield winner last season, added a brace. Compared to last year, the margin of victory was bigger as Paris Saint-Germain secured a semi-final against Real Madrid or, more probably, Bayern Munich. This trophy may remain in their grasp for another year.
Liverpool can reflect on the damage done in Paris last week though the broader conclusion might be that, after £450m of spending, they have slipped further away from the European elite. They finished third in the league phase this year but they have rarely looked plausible winners of the competition. PSG, 11th in a large league table, are in the last four, their blend of defiant defending, electric attacking and midfield finesse looking them a class apart from the English champions.
The stark reality facing Liverpool after PSG cause Champions League deja vu
Bayern Munich knock out Real Madrid in Champions League epic
01:00 , Chris WilsonLuis Diaz and Michael Olise fired Bayern Munich past 10-man Real Madrid and into a Champions League semi-final showdown with Paris St Germain in a dramatic conclusion to a pulsating tie.
Less than three minutes after Madrid substitute Eduardo Camavinga had been sent off, Diaz drilled home his side’s third equaliser before Olise struck in stoppage time to clinch a 4-3 win on the night.
The victory extended Bayern’s unbeaten run to 16 games in all competitions and sealed a 6-4 aggregate triumph, a first over the Spanish giants in a two-legged tie since 2012.
Bayern Munich knock out Real Madrid in Champions League epic
ICYMI: Rice reacts to quarter-final triumph
Thursday 16 April 2026 00:00 , Chris WilsonHere’s the full interview with Declan Rice after the Gunners secured their spot in the semi-finals:
“Bring on these last couple of weeks!” 💪
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 15, 2026
Declan Rice reacts after Arsenal reach back-to-back Champions League semi-finals!@julesbreach
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ICYMI: Arsenal secure semi-final spot
Wednesday 15 April 2026 23:45 , Chris WilsonThis was the moment Arsenal sealed that semi-final spot!
History made in North London!
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 15, 2026
Arsenal reach back-to-back Champions League semi-finals for the first time, surviving a late chance from Sporting 👏
Stream with TNT Sports on HBO Max pic.twitter.com/cknaKipKeU
Champions League semi-finals
Wednesday 15 April 2026 23:30 , Chris WilsonHere is the line-up for the final four of the 2025/26 Champions League!
Atletico Madrid v Arsenal
Paris St-Germain v Bayern Munich
Ties will be played 28/29 April & 5/6 May, with PSG and Atletico at home for the first legs.
Arsenal’s clash with Manchester City will be decided by ‘moments’ and ‘mistakes’ says Joe Cole
Wednesday 15 April 2026 23:15 , Chris WilsonFormer Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole claimed that this weekend’s Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester City will be decided by “mistakes” and “moments”, with Pep Guardiola’s side “absolutely the favourites” to win.
Arsenal currently have a six-point lead at the top of the Premier League though City have a game in hand, and they could cut the lead to just three points with a win at the Etihad this weekend.
While City have found form in recent weeks, with big wins over Liverpool and Chelsea, Arsenal have stumbled domestically, exiting the FA Cup at the hands of Southampton and losing in the league last weekend to Bournemouth.
Arsenal’s clash with Man City will be decided by ‘moments’ and ‘mistakes’
Champions League semi-finals set
Wednesday 15 April 2026 23:10 , Chris WilsonThe results of the two ties this evening mean we now know who will contest the semi-finals of the 2025/26 Champions League.
Arsenal will face Atletico Madrid, with the first leg at the Metropolitano on either the 27 or 28 April.
And holders PSG will take on Bayern Munich, with the Parisians at home in the first leg before the second leg at the Alllianz on 5 or 6 May.
Patrick Vieira backs ‘really important’ Declan Rice to drive Arsenal to silverware
Wednesday 15 April 2026 23:00 , Chris WilsonFormer Arsenal captain, Patrick Vieira, believes that the club can shake off a poor run of form and still win silverware this season with midfielder Declan Rice a ‘really important’ leader for the team.
Arsenal have seen their hopes of winning a quadruple brutally deflated in recent games after defeats in the Carabao Cup and the FA Cup preceded a shock 2-1 loss to Bournemouth in the Premier League.
The results have seen the Gunners lose three of their last four games but they hold a slim 1-0 lead over Sporting CP after the first leg of their Champions League quarter-finals.
Patrick Vieira backs ‘really important’ Declan Rice to drive Arsenal to silverware
Pundits speak on City game
Wednesday 15 April 2026 22:52 , Chris Wilson“City have found their mojo again, the manager has gone back to the basics,” says Martin Keown on TNT regarding this weekend’s game against Man City.
“Bernardo Silva is like a little lieutenant, Rodri is coming back in.
“Arsenal just need to find form. Finding form in April is key to winning the Premier League, he adds.
“There wasn’t much within the teams and I don’t think there will be at the weekend. I still think in this one-off it’ll be moments within the game, it’ll be mistakes. It’ll be edgy, blocked off,” adds Joe Cole.
“Absolutely City are favourites. I don’t think it bothers them. He’s [Guardiola] playing mind games with everyone else.
“You knew he’d come up with something. It’s going to be good!”
Up next
Wednesday 15 April 2026 22:45 , Chris WilsonArsenal’s next match is a pivotal clash in the Premier League, as the league leaders travel up north to face second-placed Manchester City.
The Cityzens are six points behind Arsenal with a game in hand, and they cut the lead to three at a vital time of the season with a win in the biggest game of the season so far.
‘Who cares what people think?’: Declan Rice delighted with Arsenal’s Champions League progress
Wednesday 15 April 2026 22:33 , Chris WilsonDeclan Rice was ‘delighted’ with how Arsenal reached a second Champions League semi-final in as many years despite a goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium against Sporting CP.
The Gunners had lost three of their last four fixtures and were knocked out of both domestic cup competitions and stumbled in the Premier League with a 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth meaning the pressure is mounting on Mikel Arteta’s side.
Arsenal are closing in on winning the Premier League title and will now face Atletico Madrid in the final four of the Champions League as the Gunners chase the two remaining trophies of the season.
Declan Rice delighted with Arsenal’s Champions League progress
Arteta: 'It's a massive moment'
Wednesday 15 April 2026 22:27 , Chris Wilson“It’s a massive moment, first time in history back-to-back [semi-finals]. To be part of thise team is something very special, you have to earn it. Big gratitude to the players,” says Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta on TNT.
“It was always going to be [tough], we had moments we should have scored and maintained momentum, but we allowed certain transitions. We had moments that we had to improve a lot to make us more dominant.
“The last 15/20 we controlled really well, we looked composed. Overall, it’s a great night and I’m very happy for all of our people.
On the challenge this weekend, he added: “It comes down to making the last step. Players deserve credit, but we’re asking them [to do more]. What I loved is the ownership the players took after Bournemouth. [Now] we need to put our words into actions.
“We’ll analyse, but at the moment, we enjoy tonight and tomorrow we start preparing [for] the weekend,” he added.
'It’s like being at any other top club'
Wednesday 15 April 2026 22:22 , Chris WilsonHere’s more from Declan Rice, firstly on the noise surrounding the team in the last few weeks.
“It’s like being at any other top club, there's noise with everything. This is Arsenal football club, there's noise with every game,” he explains.
“If you don't play well, if you don't play good, take it with a pinch of salt and keep moving. Bring on the last few weeks. It's a rollercoaster. Nobody's going to hand you anything in this game. Let's keep going and what will be will be. Let's keep going strong."
On whether they need to win against Manchester City on Sunday, he adds: “Of course, you have to win every game. We want to win every game in the Premier League. Our record this year has been amazing in all competitions. It's why we play the game. It's a game of football at the end of the day. [It's about] how much you want i, so I know I'll be ready, I know the boys will be ready, so let's go.”
'Frustrating? No...we've just got to another semi-final'
Wednesday 15 April 2026 22:17 , Chris WilsonArsenal midfielder Declan Rice says he is “delighted” to make the semi-finals once again.
“I'm delighted. I'm so, so happy. It was a really tough test over two games but to go back-to-back semi-finals is an amazing achievement for this group and we now want to go one step further than last season and get to the final,” he explains.
“Frustrating? No...we've just got to another semi-final. Who cares what people think. All that matters is what this group think, what the manager thinks and we're in another semi-final. I'm delighted.
“We'll keep going. Keep playing well. Keep getting over the line and bring it on. Bring on everything."
Arsenal to face Atletico in semis
Wednesday 15 April 2026 22:09 , Chris WilsonThe Gunners will face Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals of the Champions League, with the first leg played at the end of this month. That match will be at the Metropolitano.
The second leg takes place just a week later, as the route to Budapest opens up for the final four teams!
Bayern book semi-final spot
Wednesday 15 April 2026 22:05 , Chris WilsonBayern Munich have prevailed in their end-to-end tie with Real Madrid, and the Bavarians will face PSG in the semi-finals!
Bayern won 4-3 on the night after a late red card for Eduardo Camavinga, with the victory meaning the final score was 6-4 on aggregate!
FULL-TIME! Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 22:01 , Chris Wilson
FULL-TIME! Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:53 , Chris WilsonThat’s the last action of the game and Arsenal will play in back-to-back Champions League semi-finals for the first time in their history!
Not a classic, but does it matter?
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:52 , Chris Wilson90 +4 mins
CLOSE! Oh my word! Simoes has the final chance of the game but he rifles an effort againt the side-netting!
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:52 , Chris Wilson90 +3 mins
Another strange decision as the referee penalises Jesus for handball and Sporting can punt it into the box!
It’s good goalkeeping though as Raya comes miles off his line to collect!
Potentially one last chance for the visitors as they line up a long throw...
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:51 , Chris Wilson90 +3 mins
Braganca puts in a terrible pass that misses a teammate and that could be that!
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:50 , Chris Wilson90 +2 mins
Rice’s corner is too deep and it flies behind the far post. Time for one last Sporting attack?
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:48 , Chris Wilson90 mins
Into the first of four minutes of added time!
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:48 , Chris Wilson89 mins
It’s starting to get to the point where keeping the ball is a better idea than attacking, and the hosts are keeping possession very well.
They lose out as Jesus’ cross is intercepted, but they get back quickly in numbers to stop any Sporting attack.
Quenda puts in a decent ball but it’s headed away, before the Portuguese can’t control Araujo’s cross.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:46 , Chris Wilson88 mins
Arsenal are still managing to control the game as we approach the final minutes. Could there be time for a final Sporting chance? It certainly looks like the hosts are more likely to create one.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:44 , Chris Wilson86 mins
Better from Arsenal again but the attempt from Jesus is against the side-netting.
Sporting make a couple of late changes as Vagiannidis and Rafael Nel come on for Trincao and Quaresma.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:42 , Chris Wilson84 mins
OFF THE POST!
It’s Dowman to deliver the corner again. He hooks it to the far post and Trossard is there unmarked – he gets the header away but it cannons off the near post!
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:41 , Chris Wilson82 mins
Sporting are starting to look like they’ve run out of ideas in attack, and the Emirates is beginning to sound a little more relaxed, although Trossard’s latest attempt to make something happen comes to nothing before Havertz does well to win a corner.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:38 , Chris Wilson80 mins
Arsenal win a free-kick on the wing as Araujo picks up a yellow for his troubles.
The ball is zipped in and it falls to Havertz, but he can’t find space to squeeze his backheel through!
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:37 , Chris Wilson78 mins
Some ridiculous refereeing again as Dowman is clearly fouled but the free-kick isn’t given. It’s okay in the end as Quenda can’t make anything of his pass.
Arsenal make changes as Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus come on for Martinelli and Eze.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:35 , Chris Wilson76 mins
Rice swings in a corner but Quaresma puts it behind for a second.
Dowman lines up the next set-piece – it’s a great delivery and Silva just about gets enough on it to divert it past the far post!
No matter though, as the referee has given a foul for an incident elsewhere in the box.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:33 , Chris Wilson73 mins
It’s become a little disjointed at the Emirates, though that’s unsettled the home crowd.
Araujo works the space for a cross but it’s caught by Raya, though Mosquera quickly loses the ball before Quenda is penalised for a foul. That’s a bizarre decision from the ref.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:28 , Chris Wilson71 mins
A brief opening for Martinelli but he shows too much of it to Quaresma.
Sporting make their first changes as Geny and Goncalves make way for Daniel Braganca and Geovany Quenda.
Elsewhere, Mikel Arteta is booked for dissent.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:26 , Chris Wilson68 mins
It’s starting to get restless at the Emirates despite the aggregate lead, and that won’t help the hosts.
Geny manages to squeeze in a cross from the right but Raya collects.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:24 , Chris Wilson66 mins
Chance for Sporting and they also want a penalty!
There’s a deflected effort from Geny and it almost falls to Araujo at the far post.
The Sporting man falls under the challenge from Mosquera as he has hands on his back, but it was soft and it’s waved away.
Raya punches clear from the corner before collecting Araujo’s long-range effort.
'Now comes the opportunity for Max Dowman'
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:22 , Will Castle at the EmiratesThe latest thoughts of Will Castle, who is in place at the Emirates this evening...
“Noni Madueke fashioned Arsenal's best chance of the game when he finally stopped being scared to drive at a man and fired into the side-netting. Five minutes after finally opening the taps and showing he can make the difference, he's been forced off injured. Cruel, but now comes the opportunity for Max Dowman to show why he perhaps should've started this game.”
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:21 , Chris Wilson63 mins
Madueke is eventually forced off, and Max Dowman comes on in his place.
The Sporting corner is headed wide at the near post.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:19 , Chris Wilson60 mins
A lovely pass from Hjulmand to find Araujo in the Arsenal box, but the visitors can’t make anything of it and Trincao loses it.
Moments later, the Portuguese side win a corner after a heavy challenge on Madueke from Goncalves.
The England winger is still down near halfway, and he’s clutching his knee.
'Gyokeres' night ends'
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:17 , Will Castle at the EmiratesThe latest thoughts of Will Castle, who is in place at the Emirates this evening...
“Viktor Gyokeres's night ends before the hour mark. Another tepid performance against the team he was so red-hot for. Kai Havertz, last week's match-winner, is on.”
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:15 , Chris Wilson56 mins
First sub of the day for Arsenal as Gyokeres comes off for Kai Havertz, who scored the winner in the reverse fixture.
Moments later, Arsenal have a great chance as Madueke beats a few challenges on the edge of the box, but he blasts into the side-netting!
He should probably have left it for Martinelli as his dribble crossed the Brazilian...
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:14 , Chris Wilson55 mins
Arsenal are just starting to control possession once again, though Sporting are limiting them in attack at the moment.
Madueke tries to make something happen as he skips past a defender on the right, but his cross is headed away and Martinelli blasts a half-volley over the bar.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:10 , Chris Wilson52 mins
Rice swings in another corner but Silva catches it again, and it must be said that the Sporting ‘keeper has looked comfortable on set-pieces so far.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:07 , Chris Wilson50 mins
Gabriel does well to win a free-kick on the right wing and it’s another decent crossing chance.
Arsenal opt to go short though, and it ends with Eze firing a low effort that whizzes past the far post. Not too far away!
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:06 , Chris Wilson48 mins
CHANCE! More encouragement for Sporting as Araujo gets away down the left and cuts back outside before trying to bend one into the far corner.
He didn’t get enough curl on it in the end.
KICK-OFF! Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 21:04 , Chris WilsonBack underway at the Emirates!
HALF-TIME! Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:58 , Chris WilsonIt’s not been the best half for the neutral at the Emirates, but there have been chances at both ends and both sides are still in this one.
The hosts will feel like they could have been ahead had Gyokeres had a little slice of luck, though they got lucky in defence in the end as Geny’s late effort bounced back off the post.
It’s still in the balance and it’s all to play for in the second half in the capital!
HALF-TIME! Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:53 , Chris Wilson
HALF-TIME! Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:48 , Chris WilsonBrief opening for Eze but he blasts over from distance, and that is the last action of the half!
Arsenal are still in control here but Sporting just began to get a bit of belief as they threatened towards the end of the half.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:46 , Chris Wilson45 mins
We’ll have just one minute of added time at the Emirates.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:45 , Chris Wilson43 mins
OFF THE POST! Another warning sign for Arsenal!
The visitors get in behind the defence on the left wing, but opportunity goes begging and they’re forced to re-work it.
It’s worked wide to Araujo, who clips a cross to the back post that Geny meets – he fires a great volley towards the far post but it crashes off the woodwork!
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:42 , Chris Wilson40 mins
A heart-in-the-mouth moment for home fans as Raya passes out straight to Goncalves, though he gets let off as the Sporting man can’t find Trincao.
He’d have been clean through and onside from about five yards if he’d found him!
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:40 , Chris Wilson38 mins
Another good overlapping run into the box by Zubimendi. He gets to the byline but his cross is straight at Silva.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:37 , Chris Wilson35 mins
Just what Arsenal need as a little bit of invention from Eze sees a flick around the defender, but Gyokeres can’t find the pass for the one-two. Great idea though.
Martinelli gets away down the left but his clipped ball into the box is headed clear.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:34 , Chris Wilson33 mins
Sporting win a free-kick midway into the Arsenal half but it’s a wasted delivery from Trincao.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:33 , Chris Wilson31 mins
That first real opening seems to have given the hosts some belief, though Zubimendi headed right at the ‘keeper from the corner.
At the other end, Mosquera eventually does well to shepherd his man off the ball in the box.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:31 , Chris Wilson29 mins
CHANCE! The first real opening of the half as Eze finds Zubimendi’s overlapping run and the Spaniard cuts it back to Gyokeres.
The striker has the chance to hit it first-time but opts to go with his stronger foot and the defender closes him down!
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:27 , Will Castle at the EmiratesThe latest thoughts of Will Castle, who is in place at the Emirates this evening...
“If ever there was a moment that summed up Arsenal 12 months ago compared to Arsenal now, that was it. Declan Rice over the free-kick from 25 yards, who was of course last year's quarter-final hero from the dead ball, but he plays it short. Sporting quickly snuff out the routine and counter. They almost feel scared to go for the spectacular at the moment.”
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:26 , Chris Wilson25 mins
Another dangerous free-kick for Arsenal as Morita clips Madueke, with this one even closer to the edge of the area.
The England winger clips in the cross, but Silva catches it easily enough.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:23 , Chris Wilson21 mins
The first dangerous free-kick of the day as Goncalves catches Eze near the area.
It’ll be Rice to take – he passes to Eze but he sees a shot blocked.
And all of a sudden there’s a Sporting counter on! Arsenal committed all their men forward and Geny had the freedom of the pitch as he raced into the Arsenal half, but Martinelli did well to track back and dispossess him.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:20 , Chris Wilson20 mins
Half-chances at both ends! Gyokeres has his first pop at goal as he finds himself in space near the edge of the box, but this effort is well wide.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:20 , Chris Wilson18 mins
And now an opening for Trincao as Hjulmand intercepts Saliba’s pass and ships it on to the Sporting forward.
He tries to bend one into the far corner but it flies wide of the far post! A warning for Arsenal.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:18 , Chris Wilson17 mins
First sight of goal for Luis Suarez as Hjulmand slips him in after a great run, but the striker blasts wide at a tight angle.
He’d strayed offside anyway.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:17 , Chris Wilson15 mins
Sporting have declined to push too high at the moment as they look to keep Arsenal at arm’s length.
The visitors have shown they can play out well from the back but unsurprisingly the attacks are stalling against the home defence.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:14 , Chris Wilson12 mins
It’s not been a hugely entertaining opening to this one, with plenty of the game being played at a pedestrian pace.
Both sets of wingers are looking to inject some pace into it, but Geny is the latest to fail to do so as Hincapie shepherds him off the ball.
'Some fans fearing the worst'
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:12 , Will Castle at the EmiratesThe latest thoughts of Will Castle, who is in place at the Emirates this evening...
“When Real Madrid visited at this stage last year, there was an atmosphere of real belief and optimism, that this Arsenal team can go on to beat anyone and do anything.
“Tonight, there is more than a tinge of anxiety in the air; some are no longer dreaming of the best but fearing the worst.”
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:11 , Chris Wilson9 mins
A little glimpse of what Sporting can do in midfield as Goncalves releases Trincao well, though it comes to nothing and Saliba eventually clears.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:07 , Chris Wilson6 mins
82 per cent possession for the hosts in the opening stages, in fact. It’s been a little pedestrian so far though.
Madueke and Eze try and inject some pace into it but the chance ends as Hincapie’s shot is blocked, before Quaresma does well to stay with Martinelli at the expense of a corner.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:05 , Chris Wilson4 mins
A quick start from Arsenal, who are already dominating possession early on.
Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:03 , Chris Wilson2 mins
Eze’s first involvement sees the England international dispossess his opposite number before breaking towards the box, but he can’t find the final pass.
KICK-OFF! Arsenal 0-0 Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 20:01 , Chris WilsonWe’re underway in the capital!
Arsenal v Sporting
Wednesday 15 April 2026 19:58 , Chris WilsonWe’ve had the Champions League anthem and we’re just about ready to go.
What does this evening have in store at the Emirates?
Arsenal v Sporting live
Wednesday 15 April 2026 19:55 , Chris WilsonBoth sides are in the tunnel at the Emirates, so we’ll be underway in the next five minutes or so.
The big games just keep on coming at this stage for Arsenal and will they face a potentially season-defining match in Manchester on Sunday, their minds will firstly be on a potentially difficult fixture this evening in the capital.
Sporting came to the Emirates and won on penalties in the Europa League a few years ago, but this is a markedly different Arsenal side and the Gunners remain heavy favourites to book a place in the semi-final.
Arsenal v Sporting live
Wednesday 15 April 2026 19:50 , Chris WilsonJust 10 minutes until kick-off in what is Arsenal’s biggest game of the season so far.
The Gunners will be expected to go through tonight after last week’s win in Lisbon, though you never know in the Champions League.
It’s quickly turned into a pivotal week in the season for Arsenal & Arteta – surely they won’t start it by crashing out of Europe?
We’ll find out soon enough.
Arsenal v Sporting live
Wednesday 15 April 2026 19:45 , Chris Wilson
Eberechi Eze vows to block outside noise as Arsenal aim to silence doubters
Wednesday 15 April 2026 19:40 , Chris WilsonEberechi Eze has issued a defiant message to rival fans, stating he is unconcerned by their desire for Arsenal to falter and urging them to "deal with that" when the Gunners eventually end their trophy drought.
Arsenal have faced accusations of "bottling" their silverware aspirations, with their pursuit of four trophies this season now narrowed to two.
Manchester City currently sit six points behind in the Premier League title race, with a game in hand, having capitalised on Arsenal’s unexpected defeat by Bournemouth with a commanding 3-0 victory over Chelsea.
Eberechi Eze vows to block outside noise as Arsenal aim to silence doubters
'We know the opportunity we have ahead'
Wednesday 15 April 2026 19:35 , Chris WilsonHere’s what Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has to say ahead of kick-off at the Emirates.
“You're talking about the possibility to get in the semi-finals of the Champions League, it doesn't get much better than that, so we know the opportunity we have ahead and we're very excited for the game,” explains the Spaniard on TNT.
“That's Declan and to be fair all the boys, they want to play in these scenarios. He is fit and available,” he says on Rice pushing himself to be involved this evening.
On whether he believes he'll see the fire from his players, he adds: "Yes, 100%. I am convinced about that."
Mikel Arteta will not let faltering Arsenal players use tiredness as an excuse
Wednesday 15 April 2026 19:30 , Chris WilsonMikel Arteta said Arsenal must not use fatigue as an excuse following their defeat against Bournemouth as he challenged his players to rediscover their “enjoyment” of the game.
Arsenal missed a golden opportunity to move 12 points clear of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City after they produced a dismal display in a 2-1 loss to the Cherries at the Emirates.
The defeat marked Arsenal’s third-in-a-row on the domestic stage after their Carabao Cup final loss to City and shock FA Cup exit at Championship side Southampton.
Mikel Arteta will not let faltering Arsenal players use tiredness as an excuse
Arsenal v Sporting live
Wednesday 15 April 2026 19:25 , Chris Wilson
Match stats
Wednesday 15 April 2026 19:17 , Chris WilsonArsenal are unbeaten against Sporting in European competition, though they did exit the Europa League at the hands of the Portuguese side in the round of 16 in 2022/23.
Sporting haven’t won against an English side away since beating Middlesbrough in the 2005 Uefa Cup.
Arsenal are haunted by their past but Max Dowman’s fearlessness could save them
Wednesday 15 April 2026 19:10 , Chris WilsonMikel Arteta asked for perspective on a week he described as the “biggest opportunity” of his Arsenal tenure. His side are six points clear at the top of the Premier League with six games to go. They are potentially 90 minutes away from a Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid; a favourable draw. Yes, things could be far worse. But after a catastrophic weekend, Arsenal are staring at the ghosts of their recent history.
"We need to embrace that,” Arteta said, reiterating that his players must rise to the pressure that comes with the run-in. “The higher you are, the bumpier it gets. It’s more demanding, and the line between being the best and the worst, is really, really thin, and you have to cope with that.”
Arsenal are haunted by their past but Dowman’s fearlessness could save them
Sporting team news
Wednesday 15 April 2026 19:03 , Chris WilsonSporting boss Rui Borges has made just two changes to the side that lost 1-0 in the reverse fixture at the Alvalade last week. In defence, Eduardo Quaresma comes in at right-back in place of Iván Fresneda, while captain Morten Hjulmand returns in midfield in place of João Simões.
Sporting line-up
Wednesday 15 April 2026 18:58 , Chris WilsonSporting XI: Silva, Quaresma, Diomande, Inacio, Araujo; Hjulmand, Morita; Geny, Trincao, Goncalves; Suarez
📋 O 𝐗𝐈 𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 dos Leões para o encontro frente ao Arsenal FC 💫 #ARSSCP #UCL pic.twitter.com/pxanyHtUG4
— Sporting CP (@SportingCP) April 15, 2026
Team news
Wednesday 15 April 2026 18:55 , Chris WilsonNews on Sporting’s line-up should come any minute now, and presumably no later than on the hour.
Meanwhile it’s an interesting line-up for Arsenal, with Eze preferred in place of Kai Havertz as the creative spark for the Gunners.
Arteta's optimistic thinking doesn't come to fruition
Wednesday 15 April 2026 18:54 , Will Castle at the EmiratesMikel Arteta said "maybe one of" Jurrien Timber or Bukayo Saka would return tonight; neither of them have made the matchday squad. It means the Spaniard is still without his first-choice right-flank.
He does, however, opt to drop Ben White in light of the Bournemouth blow, with Cristhian Mosquera moving into at right-back.
There is a boost to speak of, with Declan Rice starting despite missing yesterday’s open training.
Arsenal team news
Wednesday 15 April 2026 18:51 , Chris WilsonMikel Arteta has made three changes to the side that lost 2-1 to Bournemouth last week.
In defence, Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie come in at full-back in place of Ben White and Myles Lewis-Skelly, while the only other change sees Eberechi Eze replace Kai Havertz in attacking midfield.
Arsenal line-up
Wednesday 15 April 2026 18:47 , Chris WilsonArsenal XI: Raya, Mosquera, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Rice, Zubimendi Madueke, Eze, Martinelli; Gyokeres
Subs: Kepa, Setford, White, Jesus, Norgaard, Trossard, Havertz, Dudziak, Lewis-Skelly, Dowman, Salmon.
🔴 𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗠𝙉𝙀𝙒𝙎 ⚪️
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 15, 2026
✨ Mosquera in at right-back
💪 Hincapie bolsters the left side
💡 Eze our creative spark
Up for the fight - let's do this, Gunners!!
Team news
Wednesday 15 April 2026 18:40 , Chris WilsonThe line-ups could be released at any point from the next five minutes, so here’s a reminder of the early team news for both sides...
Mikel Merino is a definite absentee for the Gunners with a foot injury. Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori will all be assessed before the game, while Declan Rice will also need a late fitness test after missing training yesterday.
Morten Hjulmand returns for Sporting after missing the first leg having picked up too many yellow cards, with Luis Suarez also available despite some confusion over whether he too would be suspended for a multitude of yellows. The booking he received in last week’s first leg turned out to be an administrative error.
Fotis Ionnidis and Luis Guilherme are out for the Portuguese side with injuries but manager Rui Borges can otherwise call on a full-strength side.
Mikel Arteta has ‘zero fear’ of Arsenal collapse as he urges his players to seize ‘incredible opportunity’
Wednesday 15 April 2026 18:30 , Chris WilsonA defiant Mikel Arteta has declared himself "on fire" and holding "zero fear" as he launched a passionate defence of his Arsenal side, whose season teeters on the brink of a devastating collapse.
The Gunners’ campaign faces a critical juncture after a third consecutive domestic defeat against Bournemouth on Saturday opened the Premier League title door for Manchester City, whom they are set to face in a pivotal match this weekend.
Before their crucial encounter with their title rivals, Arsenal will host Sporting Lisbon in the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals at the Emirates, guarding a slender one-goal lead from last week’s fixture.
Arsenal train ahead of Sporting clash
Wednesday 15 April 2026 18:22 , Chris Wilson
Champions League results
Wednesday 15 April 2026 18:15 , Chris WilsonAside from that match between Real Madrid and Bayern, there were two more quarter-final ties that concluded yesterday.
Holders PSG beat Liverpool 2-0 at Anfield to secure a 4-0 aggregate win, while Atletico Madrid lost 2-1 to Barcelona on the night but did enough in the first leg to secure a 3-2 aggregate win.
The winner of tonight’s tie between Arsenal and Sporting will face Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals, while PSG will face either Bayern or Real Madrid.
Champions League fixtures
Wednesday 15 April 2026 18:07 , Chris WilsonThere’s another huge tie taking place in the Champions League this evening, as Real Madrid travel to Germany to face Bayern Munich in the second leg of their quarter-final tie.
The Bundesliga leaders lead 2-1 on aggregate after an enthralling first leg at the Bernabeu last week, and Vincent Kompany’s side will be favourites to book a semi-final place at the Allianz Arena.
You can follow all the build-up and live action in that one with our dedicated live blog here.
How seven Premier League teams could qualify for the Champions League after clinching fifth spot
Wednesday 15 April 2026 18:00 , Chris WilsonThe Premier League could boast seven clubs in next season’s Champions League if all the right pieces fall into place – but now we know five will be guaranteed.
The extra place was sealed after Arsenal emerged 1-0 victors at Sporting in their quarter-final first leg, with Kai Havertz snatching a late winner in Lisbon.
It is the second consecutive year that the Premier League has earned an additional spot, with the English top flight at the pinnacle of the European Performance Standings.
How seven Premier League teams could qualify for the Champions League
Sporting 0-1 Arsenal: In pics
Wednesday 15 April 2026 17:52 , Chris Wilson
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
