The European curse seemingly lingers for Arsenal, who despite their electric form, looked a shell of their usual selves.

FC Porto were not an opponent to take lightly, with more success in European history than Arsenal can say for themselves, but were Arsenal perhaps too timid in their approach?

Many (including myself) may have the perspective that Arsenal played for the draw, recognising the strength of their opponents and wanting to control the possession more than score, which Porto manager Sérgio Conceição highlighted in his post-match interview. As frustrating as it is to hear, I would argue he was more than right.

Key stats:

Arsenal only registered 0.42 xG, which comparing to their last 5 matches, is quite a lacklustre figure.

Alongside that, Arsenal had 0 shots on target, being particularly disappointing from 10 corner opportunities that the Gunners are normally lethal from.

Arsenal were also careless out of possession, giving away a staggering 22 fouls to Porto, although the validity of a lot of those decisions is definitely up for debate.

General conclusions:

Several poor individual performances definitely didn’t help the Arsenal cause, but truth be told, they looked like a team that was happy to settle with a draw from kickoff. Crucial passes that usually meet their target were either under/overhit and decision making (especially regarding shooting) was poor to say the least.

Perhaps they were slightly fatigued, but I feel most Arsenal fans would agree that there was little intention to force the issue and play the attacking football we know they’re capable of playing, there was a lack of desire.

Credit to Porto for the way they set up, they had their game-plan in mind and managed to disrupt play so frequently that it was impossible for Arsenal to inject any pace into their attacks.

A heavily disappointing night for the North London club, who will be hoping for a more spirited display against Newcastle United at the weekend.