Mikel Arteta heaped praise on ‘finishers’ Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz for coming on and conjuring up the ‘magic’ moment to steer Arsenal to victory over Sporting.

The two teams had looked to be heading for a stalemate in Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final first leg, with Martin Zubimendi having a goal disallowed by VAR for offside in the second half.

Not for the first time this season, David Raya was Arsenal’s arguably standout player across the 90 minutes, producing three fine saves to keep the scoreline level at Lisbon’s Jose Alvalade Stadium.

But Arsenal rang the chances in the final 20 minutes in search of a winner and the visitors were rewarded for their endeavor as Martinelli and Havertz combined to make the breakthrough in stoppage time.

Having already caused problems off the bench, Martinelli cut inside with purpose before dinking the ball through to Havertz, who took a brilliant touch, set himself and coolly finished past Rui Silva.

The Gunners held firm to preserve their narrow advantage in the dying moments, ensuring they take a 1-0 lead back to the Emirates in a week’s time.

After a difficult period for Arsenal, which saw the club’s...