Sporting's Champions League Exit Leaves Borges with 'Infinite Pride'

Rui Borges expressed "infinite pride" despite Sporting CP's Champions League elimination against Arsenal in the quarter-finals after a goalless draw in the second leg at the Emirates Stadium. Mikel Arteta’s side advanced with a 1-0 aggregate victory, secured by Kai Havertz’s late winner in the first leg in Lisbon.

Sporting have now failed to score in eight of their 10 knockout-stage matches in the competition, managing just one goal in five away games at this stage. However, Borges highlighted his team’s resilience, noting their strong performance and a near-miss when Geny Catamo hit the woodwork just before halftime.

"I can’t say it hurts. It’s an infinite pride in the team’s ability and personality," Borges told Sport TV. "In both games, I think we were superior to Arsenal, very honestly. They ended up being lucky to score a late goal [in the first leg], which allowed them to go through. For everything we did, I think we were better—clear opportunities, the personality we showed in both games, in this extraordinary atmosphere. Pride is the right word to define this whole journey, this group. They deserved more, but we leave with our heads held high and happy about everything we were capable of."

The 1-0 aggregate scoreline marked the joint-lowest scoring Champions League quarter-final tie, matching Manchester City’s victory over Atletico Madrid in 2021-22. Arsenal have kept eight clean sheets in 12 European matches this season, the most in the competition, with Borges acknowledging their defensive strength.

"We’re talking about an extraordinary defensive line. Arsenal has great players in defence, tough ones, but the best opportunities in both games belonged to Sporting," he added.

Sporting became the 10th consecutive Portuguese club to exit at the quarter-final stage since Porto’s triumph in 2003-04. Six of those eliminations came against English opponents, but Borges remained optimistic.

"Very honestly, I think I couldn’t ask for more. It’s an infinite source of pride, and I’m very happy," he said. "Of course, we were sad because we really wanted to advance and continue to make history for Sporting, but other years will come. And Sporting will earn more and more respect."