Petr Cech hopeful of Arsenal progress despite first-leg defeat to Barcelona
Wednesday 24 February 2016 10:19, UK
Petr Cech refuses to write-off Arsenal's chances of reaching the Champions League quarter-finals, despite Tuesday's 2-0 first-leg defeat to Barcelona at the Emirates.
Arsene Wenger claimed after the game that the Spanish side were "95 per cent through" after two second-half goals from Lionel Messi gave Luis Enrique's side the advantage ahead of the second leg in Spain in three weeks' time.
No side has ever won a Champions League tie after losing the first leg at home by a two-goal margin, but goalkeeper Cech insists Arsenal are not done yet.
"We are still alive," the 33-year-old told Arsenal's official website. "It's not as if we conceded five goals.
"The second goal trimmed our chances for the second leg. But nothing's lost yet.
Arsenal on brink of sixth round-of-16 exit in a row after Barcelona loss
"If we play the same way and improve productivity, we still have a chance to turn the fight for the last eight into a drama."
Cech admitted Arsenal's failure to score was a blow after he was beaten by Messi for the first time in their seven encounters.
"If you play against one of the favourites to win the competition and you create chances, you have to convert at least one," he added.
"I regret our loss, not being beaten by one of the best footballers in history."
