We prepared for penalties — Arteta reacts to shootout victory against Porto

Mikel Arteta has hailed his Arsenal players, and coaching staff after their pre-game penalty shootout practice helped them secure passage into the quarterfinals of the UEFA Champions League for the first time in 14 years.

Porto started the game with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg and the Portuguese side defended well until the Gunners broke the deadlock through a moment of brilliance.

A pinpoint pass from Martin Odegaard found Leandro Trossard in a dangerous position, who clinically finished to give the Gunners the lead, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.

The game went to extra time and then a penalty shootout, and Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya proved to be the difference between both teams, saving twice, first from Wendell, and then the decisive kick from Galeno to send the home side through.

Speaking after the game, Arteta said. "You are very nervous. You are hoping for the best, but you know it's a bit of a lottery.

"We had our preparation yesterday and the day before, just in case, and it helped. So credit to the goalkeeping coaches and everybody who contributed."