Mikel Arteta's blunt Porto claim proven right as Arsenal break unwanted Champions League record

Arsenal have prided themselves as one of the most physically imposing sides in the Premier League recently, but they were a victim of their own success when they locked horns with Porto in the Champions League last 16 first-leg. Against the run of play, Galeno netted the Portuguese giants a late winner at the Estádio do Dragão on Wednesday evening.

While the Gunners still have the chance to counter the deficit at the Emirates Stadium in the second leg, they were dealt a major blow to their chances of advancing into the quarterfinals. Speaking to reporters after the game, Mikel Arteta aimed a sly dig at the match officials, suggesting that his side's physicality was a detriment to their performance.

«Credit to them,» said the Arsenal boss. «They defended well. But it’s true, when we got in certain areas we didn’t finish the action or put in the final ball or the right cross.

»Even from set pieces as well every time we touched somebody it seemed to be a foul before we even kicked the ball. But we will learn and do better."

In fact, Arsenal broke an unwanted record against Porto. The Gunners committed 22 fouls – no team has made more fouls in the Champions League proper since December 8, 2021. It could be argued that Arteta's side were off the pace on Wednesday night and committed fouls to slow down the pace of the game.

However, it could also be contended that the north Londoners simply played to their strengths and physically dominated the Portuguese outfit. While Arsenal were punished for throwing their weight around the field, it was a piece of magic from Galeno which put Porto ahead.

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