Arsenal F.C. may be celebrating progression, but their uninspiring 0-0 draw against Sporting CP has sparked criticism, with many arguing that the Gunners limped into the Champions League semi-finals rather than earning their place convincingly.

The narrow 1-0 aggregate victory owed everything to last week’s late strike from Kai Havertz, masking what was otherwise a disjointed and underwhelming performance at the Emirates Stadium.

While qualification sets up a high-profile semi-final clash with Atlético Madrid, the manner of Arsenal’s display has raised doubts about their readiness to compete at that level.

Sporting, far from being intimidated, looked the more dangerous side for large spells, exposing Arsenal’s defensive lapses and lack of cutting edge in attack.

Early warning signs appeared when Francisco Trincão came close after capitalising on a mistake by William Saliba—a moment that set the tone for a nervy night.

Viktor Gyökeres also threatened, forcing Arsenal goalkeeper Rui Silva into action, as Sporting repeatedly exposed gaps in Arsenal’s defensive structure.

The biggest let-off came just before half-time when Geny Catamo struck the post, a miss that arguably saved Arsenal from what would have been a disastrous elimination.

Despite their numerical advantage in quality on paper, Arsenal struggled to impose themselves, with players like Gabriel Martinelli and Noni Madueke failing to convert half-chances.

Sporting’s frustration grew when penalty appeals were waved away, particularly after a challenge involving Cristhian Mosquera, adding controversy to an already tense encounter.

Even Havertz, the hero of the first leg, squandered a golden opportunity late on, highlighting Arsenal’s lack of composure in front of goal.

A late header from Leandro Trossard struck the woodwork, while João Simões nearly punished Arsenal in stoppage time, underlining just how close the Gunners came to throwing it all away.

Manager Mikel Arteta had demanded “pure fire” ahead of the match, but what his team delivered was anything but, raising concerns about mentality as much as execution.

Instead of a statement performance, Arsenal produced a display filled with hesitation, missed chances, and defensive uncertainty, hardly the traits of a genuine title contender.

Their progression, while technically deserved, feels fragile, built more on Sporting’s missed opportunities than Arsenal’s dominance.

With Atlético Madrid awaiting, a side known for ruthlessness and discipline, such performances could prove fatal in the next round.

If Arsenal are to go any further, they will need more than just results, they will need conviction, clarity, and a level of intensity that was glaringly absent here.

For now, they advance, but not without serious questions hanging over their credentials.