Arsenal have secured their place in the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League after edging past Sporting CP with a 1–0 aggregate victory.

A disciplined defensive display in the second leg saw Arsenal hold on to a goalless draw, ensuring progression despite what some have described as a frustrating and low-intensity performance.

Following the match, midfielder Declan Rice addressed recent criticism and media scrutiny:

“At any top club, there’s noise with everything.

This is Arsenal, there’s noise, scrutiny if you don’t play well.

Take it with a pinch of salt & keep it moving. Bring on the last few weeks, it’s a rollercoaster.”

He added:

“We’ve just got to another semi final… Who cares what people think!”

Head coach Mikel Arteta also responded to the narrative surrounding the team’s performances:

“I wish we were doing the Arsenal documentary this season.

I wish you could watch what we have been doing in the last 48 hours, with everything that has been said.”

He continued:

“With everything that has been said, it seems like we are in the bottom 3. Come on guys! What are we talking about?”

From the opposition side, Morten Hjulmand offered an honest assessment of the contest:

“I think it was an even game, but still a game with low intensity, no rhythm. A bit boring if I was a viewer from outside.

It’s not the way Sporting wants to show itself, we want to score goals.”

Despite mixed reactions to the performance, Arsenal’s primary objective was achieved progression to the semi-finals keeping their hopes alive for a place in the Champions League final. The Gunners will face Atletico Madrid in the next round.