Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen believes the Gunners can recover and qualify for the next stage of the Champions League despite losing 2-1 away against Porto. The Belgian admitted the two conceded goals at the Estádio do Dragão were “stupid” and made it difficult for them ahead of the March 9 game, but going through is a possibility.

Speaking to the Sunday Mirror, the 24-year old added that the Sunderland win was crucial to get back on winning terms and to show how important the Emirates can be for them.

He said:

We need that spirit again in the home match. We have proved it before and now we have to do it again. We have to win the home game and I am confident we will go through.

I think that we have the quality to do that. [The away goal] could be important and the tie is not over yet. Not at all.

I thought the first goal was a cross that turned into a shot. But it was not only [Fabianski]. You lose with 11 or you win with 11. That is how it is with us.

In Porto we did not perform as a team. Now we have made it difficult for ourselves because we did not play well and we gave stupid goals away.