Arsenal produced a fine performance in Lisbon, dismantling Sporting CP 5-1 to claim their third win in the Champions League league phase.
The victory marked the first time Sporting lost in regular time this season.
Gabriel Martinelli opened the flood gates early, tapping in from Jurrien Timber’s cross after an intricate build-up.
Kai Havertz doubled the lead with a composed finish before Gabriel headed home a third just before halftime, capitalizing on poor marking from Sporting’s defense.
The Brazilian celebrated with Viktor Gyökeres’ signature ‘mask’ gesture, a bold nod to the Swedish striker who struggled to make an impact.
Sporting briefly rallied after the break when Gonçalo Inácio flicked a header past David Raya.
However, Arsenal responded with Bukayo Saka converting a penalty following a foul on Martin Ødegaard, and Leandro Trossard sealed the rout with a late header.
Despite Gyökeres’ reputation as one of Europe’s in-form strikers, Arsenal’s defensive pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel nullified his threat, leaving him frustrated throughout the match.
