Arsenal Comeback Won't Save Them From European Exit....

In a match that saw Barca with the majority of possession, simply "majestic" is what i would describe the first 65 minutes of the game.

Barca game out with a point to prove, playing away to a team with the quality that Arsenal possess you would imagine a little conservative start. But Barcelona came out like a hungry prie of lion, and tried from every angle to score, but on a day when Almunia found his saving gloves, the half ended 0-0.

So after a first half where Arsenal where outplayed, outstripped and simply outclassed, Wenger must've been licking his lips that they didn't conceed. But 22 seconds into the second half, Ibrahimovich lobbed a ball over Almunia's head and into the goal.

Arsenal on the back foot, couple minuted later Ibra once again was found cutting trought the center back and powered goal number two. For many that was the game, especially against a Barca team. But taking it easy, Arsenal made a fight of it, coming back with two late goal, a timely substituion and a contriversional penalty, game ended Arsenal 2 - 2 Barcelona.

So now everyone looks to the second leg, but in both camps there's big problems looming, with both center back suspended for Barca it won't be easy keeping Arsenal at bay.

But then on the other hand, Arsenal will be with out Fabregas(suspended) whose also sustained a major injury, Arshavin who looked like a serious injury having to bow out after just 27minutes and Gallas who seems to keep on getting sidelined.

So can Arsenal use the advantage of two late goals to help through a night out at the Camp Nou. Well personally i believe not, Barca at home are very dificult to break down, and with their passing game and possession they frustrate teams into giving in.

Ultimately spaces start to arise, and because Barcelona are so quick, in their passing, in their movement you always at risk of allowing them to get in. And with a that's short of substance, three senior players missing you sure to struggle.

Remember i'm not taking anything away from Arsenal's final twenty minutes that saw them score two goals. but 90 minutes at the Camp Nou will be as tough as any major cup final.

Messi was playing a very subdude game, and if he kicks in, come the second leg, Arsenal will be hopping for an easy night out.

Many might disagree with me, like usual but you are the few die-heart Arsenal fans who have that belief that no score is to little to get. You will be pleasantly suprised that this team that Arsne Wenger has put together are short of a few big names.

Wenger has always believed that he doesn't need big players, that his youngsters are good enough to win the league, and win the Champions League. But it's these occasions when you question his decisions not to bring in more players.

Arsenal have failed in the last couple years simply due to the team been to young and inexperienced, but also when you have a limited squad options you always going to find it difficult to compete. 

Yes Wenger's boy play attractive football, entertain, classy but ultimately you want the final result, the crown for your efforts....sometimes you need to be hard, and Arsenal aren't hard enough.

They severely lack the intensity and willingness that experience brings. As a neutral i'm hoping for another entertaining encounter come next Tuesday.