In a tense first leg of the Champions League Round of 16, Arsenal found themselves trailing early in the second half against Leverkusen. Robert Andrich’s header initially gave the Bundesliga side a glimmer of hope and the lead, putting pressure on the Gunners.
Despite applying constant pressure and seeking an equalizer, Mikel Arteta’s squad struggled to create clear-cut scoring opportunities for much of the match. Their efforts seemed to be in vain as time ticked away.
However, in a dramatic turn of events late in the game, an infringement occurred. A foul committed in the penalty area by Leverkusen’s Tillman on Madueke granted Arsenal a crucial lifeline. Former Chelsea and Leverkusen player Kai Havertz stepped up to convert the spot-kick in the 89th minute, salvaging a vital draw for the Gunners and ensuring they head into the second leg with the score level.