This win was not a vintage Arsenal performance but beating Sporting could prove to be a pivotal moment in the Gunners' season.
Arsenal had been criticised after two successive defeats and looked like they would be frustrated again before Kai Havertz scored the dramatic winner.
Mikel Arteta's side struggled to create chances despite having more of the ball throughout – and currently do not have a forward player in top form as they look to win a major trophy for the first time in six years.
But by producing a resilient display in Lisbon against a quality Sporting side and grabbing the victory, Arsenal's players have received a huge injection of confidence heading into the business end of the season.
It would have been a very nervy atmosphere at the Emirates on Saturday against Bournemouth if the Gunners returned to league action after three winless fixtures.
But now they may be able to play with more freedom after shaking off the painful cup losses to Manchester City and Southampton.
The only negative for Arteta on Tuesday was that Martin Odegaard had to come off with a knock – his captain's campaign has been blighted by fitness problems.
