Arsenal beat FC Porto 2-1

Arsenal looked better tonight in defeating Porto than a couple of nights ago against Ajax in the Amsterdam Tournament. It almost looked like a real game.

Lisandro gave Porto the early lead after side-footing in a cross.

Arsenal faced quite a bit of pressure from Porto the entire game whose midfield had more control before the half, and probably overall. Freddie Ljungberg came off the bench and provided both goals, playing much better than in the 1-0 victory against Ajax. He made an immediate impact.

New signing Alexander Hleb was again full of ideas and looks likely to have earned himself a starting role but I’ve noticed he tends to drift forward a bit too much. Arsenal were exposed a couple of times from that. Speaking of starting roles, Ivorian Emmanuel Eboue is doing well, and against quick players. He’s looked sharper than Lauren albeit making a few mistakes in the process.

Porto, with new Dutch coach Co Adriaanse, looked good. A few late defensive bungles almost made it 2-2. Pascal Cygan provided the late drama. For that matter, Senderos didn’t look that great either before Toure replaced him.

For what its worth, Arsenal are unbeaten so far this pre-season and better keep Sol Campbell.