
UEFA Champions League
8:00 p.mMarch 17, 2026
Round of 16

arsenal*2 – 0
VAT:(1-0)
Added:(3-1)

Bayer LeverkusenEmirates Stadium
Referee: Danny Makkelie, Netherlands


arsenal


Bayer Leverkusen
Turn off the spoiler to see match stats
1.75
Expected Goals (xG)
0.52
Passing by
319 (84%)
Accurate passes
464 (88%)
Turn off the spoiler to see the events of the match
1
G
David Raya
7.2
5
d
Piero Hincapié
8.3
6
d
Gabriel Magalhães
7.3
2
d
Guillem Saliba
6.9
4
d
Ben White
6.2
36
m
Martin Zubimendi
6.9
m
Leandro Trossard
m
god bless you
36′
7
m
Bukayo Saka (C)
8.9
14
F
Viktor Gyökeres
6.9
28
G
Janis Blaswich
9.2
12
d
Edmond Tapsoba
6.3
8
d
Robert Andrich (C)
6.5
4
d
Jarell Quansah
6.3
20
m
Alexandre Grimaldo
6.3
24
m
Alex Garcia
7.2
m
Exequiel Palacios
19
m
Ernest Poku
6.2
30
F
Ibrahim Maza
6.5
11
F
Martin Terrier
6.2
35
F
Christian Kofane
6.3

UEFA Champions League Ranking – UEFA Champions League
Qualification/Relegation
- Promotion – Champions League (Play Off: Round of 16)
- Promotion – Champions League (Play Off: Round of 16)
Arsenal’s European ambition shone through as goals from Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice secured a dominant 2-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen.
Arsenal continued their impressive UEFA Champions League campaign at the Emirates Stadium on 17 March 2026. The Gunners entered the competition with a perfect record, aiming to consolidate their top spot in the group. Bayer Leverkusen, known for their attacking flair, faced a formidable challenge away from home against the in-form Gunners.
In the early stages of the game, Arsenal established control, pressing high and creating chances. Bukayo Saka was particularly influential, orchestrating several attacks down the right flank. The Leverkusen defence, organized by their goalkeeper Janis Blaswich, worked hard to repel the initial attack.
Despite Arsenal’s persistent pressure, the first goal came in the 36th minute. A neat pass culminated in Leandro Trossard providing a pinpoint assist for Eberechi Eze. Eze, showing composure, slotted the ball past Blaswich to give the home side a deserved lead.
Leverkusen struggled to find rhythm, with Arsenal’s midfield stifling their creative players. The visitors managed only two shots on goal during the entire first half. Blaswich, however, was in outstanding form, making crucial saves to keep his side in contention.
The second half started with a moment of discipline for Leverkusen. Just one minute after the restart, Exequiel Palacios received a yellow card for a wrong tackle. This early booking highlighted the growing frustration of visitors.
Bayer Leverkusen made a double substitution in the 60th minute, bringing on M. Terrier and E. Poku to try and spark their attack. However, Arsenal were quick to capitalize on their changes. In the 63rd minute, Declan Rice doubled Arsenal’s lead. He stepped forward and fired a powerful shot into the net, leaving Blaswich with no chance.
With a comfortable two-goal cushion, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta began to introduce fresh legs. MartÃn Zubimendi, Ben White and Kai Havertz were among those who took part, ensuring the team maintained their energy and defensive form. Leverkusen also made further changes, including the withdrawal of Palacios in the 70th minute.
The statistics painted a clear picture of Arsenal’s dominance. The Gunners recorded an expected goals (xG) of 1.75 compared to Leverkusen’s 0.52. Arsenal unleashed 21 shots in total, with 12 on target. Leverkusen managed just 9 shots in total, with just 2 on target. Despite Leverkusen’s 58% possession, Blaswich was the busiest goalkeeper, making an incredible 10 saves.
This decisive 2-0 win strengthens Arsenal’s grip at the top of their Champions League group. He secures his progression to the knockout stages with a strong statement of intent. For Bayer Leverkusen, the result means they must now regroup and fight fiercely in their remaining games.

