"Of course": Kasper Hjulmand delivers honest reaction after Arsenal draw vs Bayer Leverkusen

Bayer Leverkusen manager Kasper Hjulmand has delivered his honest reaction after the 1-1 draw against Arsenal in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16.

The Gunners went into the game as favourites to beat the German outfit, but their performance was far from convincing. Leverkusen looked on course for a victory before a late equaliser from the penalty spot.

Speaking after the game, Hjulmand said that Leverkusen produced a top performance against a top team. He added that the Bundesliga outfit will travel to London with high hopes and want to cause an upset.

He said (via UEFA.com): “I have mixed emotions. We played well and didn’t concede many chances. We were active and played well with the ball. It was a top performance against a top team.

“Of course, it’s very frustrating that we only drew 1-1. We’re now travelling to London with high hopes. Arsenal are under a lot of pressure. We’re looking forward to this game and want to cause an upset.”

Arsenal had an even opening half against Leverkusen at the BayArena. Gabriel Martinelli was unfortunate to hit the woodwork. However, the host were by far the better team during the second half.

They made a very quick start after the interval, forcing a brilliant save from David Raya. Robert Andrich scored from the resultant corner, but the Leverkusen captain should have been sent off earlier.

Andrich was already on a yellow card when he blatantly body-checked Viktor Gyokeres in the fifth minute. The referee showed some leniency, but he should have received his marching orders, in our view.

Arsenal eventually got out of jail with a late penalty. This has obviously put them in an advantageous position unlike starting the second leg at the Emirates Stadium with a 1-0 deficit to recover.

Mikel Arteta’s side now need to focus on Saturday’s Premier League clash against Everton at the Emirates before entertaining Leverkusen in the reverse leg of the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday.

Wednesday’s draw was a good reality check for the Gunners. They have the opportunity to make amends by returning to winning ways against the Toffees before Leverkusen arrive in north London.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

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