By Danjuma Amodu | March 12, 2026
Arsenal escaped a defeat at Bayer Leverkusen with a 1-1 draw in the Champions League last-16 first leg, thanks to Kai Havertz’s 89th-minute penalty. The German forward, playing against his former club, showed composure under pressure, slotting the ball into the bottom corner to cancel out Robert Andrich’s header, which had given Leverkusen the lead just after half-time.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised Havertz’s performance, saying, “Football writes crazy stories.”
Earlier, Arsenal had a golden opportunity to take the lead, but Gabriel Martinelli’s effort hit the crossbar in the 19th minute. The Gunners struggled to create clear chances, with Leverkusen’s disciplined defence frustrating them. However, Havertz’s late penalty, awarded after Noni Madueke was fouled in the box, ensured Arsenal avoided defeat.
The draw sets up an intriguing return leg at the Emirates Stadium next week, with Arsenal looking to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
_Looking Ahead_
Arsenal will look to leverage their strong home record, having won 13 and drawn one of their 14 home games in all competitions this season. The Emirates Stadium has been a fortress for the Gunners, and they’ll be hoping to make it count in the return leg. Leverkusen, however, has been solid away from home, with just one loss in their last 10 away games in all competitions. Xabi Alonso’s side will be looking to build on their away form and cause an upset at the Emirates.
Leverkusen has been impressive at home, with a six-match unbeaten streak and only one goal conceded. However, Arsenal’s attacking firepower, led by Gabriel Martinelli, Guokeres and Bukayo Saka, could be too much for Leverkusen’s defence. Arsenal will be looking to build on their 1-1 draw in the first leg, with predictions favouring them to win 2-0 or 3-1.
