Arsene Wenger claimed that it was the perfect display from his players after they managed to do the unimaginable by qualifying for the Champions League last 16 by the skin of their teeth.
Arsenal looked seemingly out of the group stages just after they suffered two back-to-back defeats at the start of the campaign. These two defeats looked even worse when considering that title favourites Bayern Munich were the opponents in the next two games. Arsenal were not expected to even get a point against the German team in these two games. A huge lifeline came in the form of a shock win over Bayern at the Emirates stadium.
This coupled with other results going their way meant that Arsenal went into the last group game still with a chance to qualify for the last 16. Olympiakos, meanwhile, had the simple task of holding onto even a draw. Arsenal had to win by two or more goals in order to stand any chance of qualification. They comfortably achieved this target with goals from Olivier Giroud being a crucial factor. The Frenchman scored a hat-trick just at the time when it mattered the most for the gunners, who will now look towards the knockout round.
The last 16 draw will be made shortly by UEFA.”I told you before the game it would be a great escape, and I must say I’m very proud of the team. We had a perfect performance on the mental front and the tactical side. I put my focus on staying in the competition.This kind of performance, in a very heated atmosphere, showed we have character. These kinds of performances make the team stronger. I think it’s a fantastic achievement for us.Nine times out of 10 in that position, you are out of the group. We needed something special to switch it on and come back like we did tonight,” said Wenger.