Martin Keown believes that Arsenal have a good chance of success in the Champions League at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal’s victory over Porto in the UEFA Champions League has left them feeling confident and optimistic about their chances in the competition, according to TNT Sports pundit Martin Keown.
The Gunners secured their place in the last eight after a tense penalty shootout, with goalkeeper David Raya emerging as the hero after saving two penalties. This achievement marks the end of a 14-year wait for Arsenal to reach this stage of the tournament, adding to their successful season in the Premier League.
Currently sitting at the top of the Premier League table, Arsenal are ahead of Liverpool on goal difference and one point clear of reigning champions Manchester City. Their next challenge will be facing Manchester City on March 31 at the Etihad Stadium.
Keown believes that the victory over Porto has given Arsenal the momentum and confidence they need heading into this crucial match. He stated, “It would have been a downer if they had lost this tonight and gone into the City game, of course they are out of the FA Cup, but now this keeps it ticking along beautifully. The players grow from it, there’s a lot of confidence now.”
He also expressed his belief that Arsenal can potentially be winners in the Champions League, stating, “It’s a really big night where they can feel that they can potentially be winners. I’m putting it out there – they want to win something.”
The transformation of Arsenal’s home ground, the Emirates Stadium, has been a key factor in their success this season. The passionate support from the packed-out crowd played a crucial role in their victory over Porto.
Keown and fellow pundit Rio Ferdinand agreed that the intimidating atmosphere at the Emirates will give Arsenal an advantage as they aim to secure silverware in the coming years. Keown said, “This stadium was called the promised land for those that played at Highbury. It hasn’t really quite worked. We were longing for these sorts of evenings and they are back again now. Nobody is going to want to come here in the next round because Arsenal as a prospect in Europe look very hot right now.”
Ferdinand added, “Arsenal Football Club hasn’t seen this for a while. This place is becoming a fortress. It’s a hard place to come now. They’re making it hard for everybody.”
Overall, Arsenal’s victory over Porto has given them a boost of confidence and belief in their ability to compete at the highest level. With their strong form in the Premier League and the passionate support of their home crowd, Arsenal are determined to make their mark in the Champions League and bring success back to the club.