Raheem Sterling was one of Arsenal’s best performers against PSV Eindhoven but, the winger made a costly error.
A 9-3 victory over two legs booked Arsenal’s ticket to the Champions League quarter final, drawing 2-2 with PSV in the second-leg.
Mikel Arteta’s side got the job done in Eindhoven as the Gunners beat PSV 7-1 in the first leg, carrying a six-goal lead to the Emirates.
Home fans weren’t treated to a result as exciting as the tie opener, seeing Arsenal draw 2-2 with PSV after Arteta made as many as seven changes to his starting XI.
One of the standout performers was Sterling, who earned a rare start in the front three but, Arteta won’t be entirely happy with the loanee’s display.
Raheem Sterling banned from Champions League quarter final
After Arteta snubbed Sterling when Arsenal needed a goal against Manchester United, the winger was given the chance to show his worth against PSV.
The Englishman played 90 minutes at the Emirates and certainly treated fans to a lively performance, having a hand in both goals with two assists.
Sterling had several chances to score also but devastatingly couldn’t find the net, which was one thing the 30-year-old would’ve wished he did differently.
Shooting more effectively wasn’t the only regret the loanee will have, as in the 93rd minute, the former Manchester City star was booked.
The yellow card was the third of Sterling’s in the Champions League this season, which will now see him suspended for the quarter final first-leg.
Players can receive two yellow cards up until the quarter final to avoid suspension but, Sterling’s injury time caution took him over the line.
Arteta will be frustrated that the forward couldn’t be more thoughtful in the latter stages to avoid picking up a booking, with his suspension a real shame after what was an impressive performance.
Sterling was able to influence the game against PSV
It’s been a nightmare loan spell for Sterling, who promised so much when he arrived at Arsenal on deadline day from Chelsea.
Against PSV, the Englishman was able to impact the game sufficiently, recording two assists and being a frequent cause of threat in the wide areas.
| Raheem Sterling vs PSV Eindhoven |
| 47 touches |
| 2 assists |
| 3 key passes |
| 5 duels won |
| 4 fouls drawn |
| 1 interception |
His performance makes the suspension even more frustrating, given what the confidence-boosting display could’ve done for him ahead of the quarter final.
Nothing should take away from the forward’s performance however, receiving a booking so late was a real blow.