Victory justifies the talk! Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, shared his thoughts after beating Leverkusen to reach the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals.
Mikel Arteta, manager of the "Gunners" Arsenal, confirmed that his team deserved to defeat Bayer Leverkusen and advance to the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals after securing a 2-0 home win in the second leg of the round of 16 last night, winning 3-1 on aggregate.
Arteta said, "We started the game very well, creating danger from every aspect. Their goalkeeper kept them in the game, and we needed a brilliant moment from Ebs (Emile Smith Rowe) to take the lead."
"Then in the second half, Rice's play gave us the chance to win, and we had 4-5 opportunities where we should have scored a third goal. Overall, we fully deserved to win and advance to the quarterfinals."
"Ebs plays every three days. He has good timing, understands his teammates, and this (goal) is why he is here. He is gradually building understanding with everyone, and when you start creating key moments in a game, it boosts your confidence."
"Rice played excellently. He and the whole team—the way they approached every ball and the determination they showed—was truly impressive."
"Regarding Rice’s striking technique, when the ball hit the net, the reaction of all the players around him said it all. That’s why he is here."