Kuala Lampur, April 16 --  

LONDON, April 16 - Mikel Arteta insisted Arsenal's angst-ridden progress to the Champions League semi-finals proved they have the character to cope with the mounting pressure of their bid to end a six-year trophy drought.

Arteta's side survived an anxious quarter-final second leg against Sporting Lisbon yesterday as they held on for a goalless draw that secured a 1-0 aggregate victory.

The Gunners were well below their best at the Emirates Stadium, but Sporting couldn't take advantage as Geny Catamo went closest for the visitors with a first-half volley that smacked off the post.

It was the latest in a growing list of spluttering displays from Arsenal, who have lost three of their last five games ...