Arsenal are set to face Bayer Leverkusen at the Emirates Stadium in the second leg of the 2025/26 Champions League Round of 16 on Tuesday, 17 March 2026. Softfootball believes Arsenal are favourites to progress, based on their resilience and recent performances this season.
In the first leg, Arsenal secured a 1:1 draw, equalising in the 89th minute through a penalty. This late response reflects a pattern seen in recent matches. In their 2:0 Premier League win over Everton, Arsenal scored in the 89th minute and 90+7, highlighting a team that continues to fight until the final whistle.
Leverkusen remain a strong opponent, and Mikel Arteta will be keen to ensure Arsenal do not concede early while aiming to take the lead. In the first leg, Leverkusen dominated the first half, but Arsenal responded well in the second half to regain control and secure the equaliser.
Noni Madueke impressed in the first leg, although it remains uncertain whether he will start in this return fixture. Viktor Gyökeres is in strong form, while 16-year-old Max Dowman has also made an impact, scoring Arsenal’s second goal in stoppage time against Everton. Bukayo Saka continues to maintain good form as well.
With the attacking options available and their current momentum, Arsenal appear well positioned heading into the decisive stage of the tie, particularly as performances at this point in the season often determine overall success.
