Leverkusen, Mar 12 (V7N) – Arsenal were held to a 1-1 draw by Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League knockout stage, with Mikel Arteta’s side struggling to find their rhythm.

Arsenal, dominant during the group stage, appeared disorganized at the BayArena. The hosts took the lead just after the break when Hobart Andrich scored with a header from a corner kick, putting the Premier League leaders under pressure.

Arsenal salvaged a draw when Kai Havertz converted a penalty just before half-time, ensuring the match ended 1-1.

The return leg next Tuesday at the Emirates Stadium will be crucial, as Arsenal aims to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.

Fans will be watching closely to see if Arteta can reorganize his side and improve their performance ahead of the decisive second leg.

END/SMA/AJ