Arsenal 3-2 Vitoria SC: 3 Reasons why the Gunners completed an improbable comeback | Europa League 2019/20

#2 Vitoria SC let their foot off the pedal marginally

Vitoria SC left the Emirates empty-handed

Vitoria SC started the encounter extremely well and their bravery and courage on the ball stunned Arsenal. The visitors weren’t afraid to pile numbers forward while attacking and that put the Gunners on the back foot almost instantly. Subsequently, the Portuguese side propelled itself into the lead in the 8th minute.

Though the hosts pulled a goal back a couple of minutes after the half-hour mark, Vitoria quickly regained their composure to restore their advantage. Thereafter, they kept pressing for goals with Davidson coming close on a few occasions.

However, once Arsenal began traversing on an upward trajectory, the visitors slightly retreated into their shell, meaning that they were deprived of the ball and were forced to chase after it.

Unsurprisingly, a bit of anxiety and exhaustion started creeping into Vitoria’s play as they conceded a host of fouls, offensively and defensively. Moreover, their attack failed to muster enough of a threat, thereby enabling the home side to not worry too much about the visitors scoring again.

Throughout the game, the away side were pretty spotless as they imposed their identity on the match, establishing a firm footing in the process. However, when push came to shove, they showcased their lack of big-game experience, thereby allowing Arsenal a route into the game, despite the Gunners not deserving it.

And, unfortunately, Vitoria learnt that football is indeed a cruel sport and they were dealt that lesson quite harshly on Thursday.