Key moments
In a tightly contested Champions League match on March 17, 2026, Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen played to a 1-1 draw at the Emirates Stadium in London. The result leaves both teams with everything to play for in the second leg of their knockout tie.
The match began with both sides displaying their attacking prowess, but it was Arsenal who struck first. Bukayo Saka, who has been instrumental for the Gunners in the Champions League, found the back of the net, continuing his impressive record of contributing to 13 goals in just 12 appearances at the Emirates. However, Bayer Leverkusen responded with determination, and Alejandro Grimaldo, who has created 26 chances this season, played a crucial role in leveling the score.
Historically, Arsenal has been strong in two-legged knockout ties, having progressed from 17 of their last 20 encounters in major European competitions when avoiding defeat away from home in the first leg. This statistic adds pressure on Leverkusen, who have struggled in England, losing eight of their 11 away matches against English teams in the Champions League.
Under the management of Mikel Arteta, Arsenal has been formidable at home, winning 13 of their 16 Champions League games. The only defeat came against Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals last season. Arteta expressed confidence in his team’s ability to perform in front of their home crowd, stating, “We know what we have to do, and in front of our crowd, with our people, putting all the energy in the world again, hopefully we are going to do it.”
On the other hand, Bayer Leverkusen, managed by Kasper Hjulmand, is aiming to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League for the third time, a feat they have not achieved since the 2001/02 season. Hjulmand emphasized the need for his team to deliver a structured performance, saying, “If we push ourselves to the limit, if we reach our true level, if we deliver a structured performance and show everything we’re capable of, then we’re at a high level.”
In terms of squad availability, Arsenal faced some challenges, with Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard sidelined due to injuries. However, Leandro Trossard made a return to the lineup after recovering from a hip issue. Conversely, Leverkusen’s first-choice goalkeeper, Mark Flekken, was unavailable due to a knee injury, which could impact their defensive stability in the upcoming matches.
As the teams prepare for the second leg, the draw leaves both clubs with a sense of urgency. Arsenal’s home advantage and historical performance in the Champions League may play a crucial role, while Leverkusen will be eager to break their poor record against English teams. The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to this knockout tie.
