The Round of 16 jinx is over!

For the first time in fourteen years, Arsenal has advanced to the Champions League quarterfinals. The Round of 16 jinx is over!

This was a huge hurdle, and it took a remarkable performance throughout the 120 minutes and in the penalty kicks to ice the deal.

The Gunners have now won two major games this season from the penalty spot. The win over Man City in the Community Shield, and now the Round of 16 tie v Porto.

Hats off to David Raya for making those two outstanding saves, and to Odegaard, Saka, Rice and Haverrtz for their cool as ice performances from the spot. This was a job well done by everyone at the club, on and off the pitch!

On Friday morning, we will learn who the Gunners will face in the next round. The other seven clubs provide a list of football’s who’s who. Any draw will be a difficult challenge, and will take a 100% effort from each member of the Arsenal squad. In other words, it doesn’t get any easier.

For this writer, the tide has changed. Instead of expecting to lose the big matches, I now believe that we will win the big matches. Mikel Arteta has put together a group of men that have earned this growing reputation. Arsenal is no longer just another “big” club, Arsenal is now a big club to be feared and reckoned with in every match. I can’t imagine any of the other clubs remaining in the quarterfinals who wish to draw the Gunners.

Pride is growing, confidence is growing, and this team has reignited the passion in Gooner Nation around the world.

Yes, we are proud of this club, and we can not wait until March 31st to play Manchester City in the Etihad.

To the international players, please returns to north London healthy and fit, while to the players staying in London, get some rest and heal those bumps and bruises,

COYG!

Gunner1953