Let’s put Arsenal’s Round of 16 curse to bed

Arsenal has qualified for the Champions League twenty-two times. They have reached the Round of 16 seventeen times, but before this season, the Gunners had not played in Europe’s top tournament since the 2016/2017 season. Breaking this drought had been a major goal for Mikel Arteta since he took over as manager in 2019.

Unfortunately, recent history is not on the Gunners side when comes to the Round of 16.  For seven straight seasons, Arsenal could not advance out of the Round of 16 under Arsene Wenger. From 2009/2010 season through 2016/2017 the Round of 16 was a disaster. These missteps usually began with a disappointing first leg defeat the Gunners could overcome in the the 2nd leg.

Now, Arteta and his squad have a very good chance of breaking the curse beginning at Porto. A win or a draw at Porto is paramount for Arsenal, since the 2nd leg will be played in Emirates Stadium on March 12th in front of the club’s home supporters. The team can not afford to have a poor outing on Wednesday.

Is it possible for the Gunners to advance to the Champions League final for the first time since 2005/2006? Could Arsenal actually win this prestigious trophy?

These are very big equations that can only be answered on the pitch, however, with the Premier League title still within the club’s sights, and if Arteta can keep his lads playing at the their current level and beyond, anything is possible.

Let’s put the Round of 16 curse to bed and create a new legacy of going deep into the Champions League, beginning this season!

COYG!

Gunner1953