Arsenal recovered from a two-goal deficit to earn a 2-2 draw at home to Barcelona in a thrilling Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday to keep alive their hopes of advancing to the semis. Barcelona, who are bidding to win a second consecutive Champions League title, wasted several clear-cut opportunities in a first half they totally dominated. Arsenal had to thank keeper Manuel Almunia for pulling off a string of impressive saves to deny the visitors. Barca's Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic was particularly wasteful but he made amends seconds after the restart to give Barcelona a deserved lead. He latched onto a long ball from centre back Gerard Pique and lobbed Almunia as the Catalans finally made their domination count. Ibrahimovic scored his second of the night in the 59th minute to double Barcelona's advantage.
A fine pass from Xavi found him inside the area to smash a powerful drive that beat Almunia at his near post. Barcelona looked on course for a comfortable win but Arsenal substitute Theo Walcott, who replaced French full-back Bacary Sagna, reduced the arrears in the 69th minute. He ghosted behind Barcelona's left-back Maxwell to collect a through pass from Nicklas Bendtner and fire home under the body of keeper Victor Valdes Arsenal were awarded a penalty when Cesc Fabregas fell under a challenge from Carles Puyol, who was sent off for the last-man foul. Fabregas converted the ensuing penalty five minutes from time to draw Arsenal level and maintain their hope of booking a last-four berth. Barcelona will have to do without central defensive pair Pique and Puyol when they host Arsenal in the second leg next week due to suspension. Arsenal will play without inspirational captain Fabregas, who will also miss the clash through suspension.
