Arsenal FC bowed out of the Europa League Round of 16 after losing 5-3 on post-match penalties following a 1-1 draw with Sporting CP.
Granit Xhaka gave the home team the lead early in the game, but Pedro Goncalves tied the score for the visitors late in the game, forcing extra time and ultimately penalties.
After the game, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta demanded his team to immediately atone for the defeat.
“It’s a huge blow, but it brings clarity to the season. There are 11 games to play in the Premier League and a big final against Crystal Palace. The focus has to be there, the energy has to be there, and we have to learn from tonight,” said Arteta.
Arteta added that he expects a better performance when his Gunners face Crystal Palace in the Premier League.
“We haven’t done it, we have to learn from it, but the best thing is now the reaction and show the same commitment, more quality and play better against Palace to beat them.”
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Arsenal host Crystal Palace on Sunday in their return to Premier League play.
The Gunners are five points atop the Premier League with 11 games remaining.
Arteta’s men have not lost in their last five League matches and will look to maintain their unbeaten run.
