Sports 8 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Havertz Celebrates Arsenal's Champions League Win as Key Turnaround
Kai Havertz scored a late winner to give Arsenal a 1-0 victory over Sporting in the Champions League quarter-final first leg, hailing it as a vital boost after recent domestic cup defeats. The German forward praised teammate David Raya and expressed confidence in still winning major trophies this season. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/sports/soccer/havertz-hails-arsenal-turnaround-5416688
Arsenal secured a narrow 1-0 win against Sporting in the Champions League quarter-final first leg, thanks to a stoppage-time strike from substitute Kai Havertz. The German international, who replaced the injured Martin Odegaard, latched onto a pass from Gabriel Martinelli and slotted past Rui Silva to clinch the advantage ahead of the return fixture in London.
Havertz described the result as a significant turnaround for the Gunners, following their recent losses in the League Cup final to Manchester City and an FA Cup upset against Championship side Southampton. ‘We lost the last two matches, so we wanted a turnaround today and we made it happen,’ he told Amazon Prime.
Despite their ‘quadruple’ dreams being reduced to a ‘double’ chase, Havertz remains optimistic. ‘We stick together as a group, we have so much more to come. Seven weeks to go, we can win big titles,’ he added.
The forward also lauded goalkeeper David Raya, named player of the match for his crucial saves. ‘For me, the best keeper in the world over the last two seasons. He’s outstanding and has saved us so many times,’ Havertz said.
Arsenal, leading the Premier League with 70 points, face Bournemouth this Saturday.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)