Declan Rice described Arsenal’s progression to another Champions League semi-final as an “amazing achievement,” despite the team facing criticism after a goalless draw against Sporting Lisbon at the Emirates on Wednesday.

The Gunners advanced 1-0 on aggregate, following Kai Havertz’s late winner in the first leg in Portugal last week.

Arsenal, who are still chasing their first Champions League title, were eliminated at the semi-final stage last season by eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain.

They will now face Atletico Madrid for a place in the final, where either PSG or Bayern Munich could await in Budapest next month.

“To reach back-to-back semi-finals is an amazing achievement for this group,” Rice told TNT Sports. “Now we want to go one step further than last year and reach the final.”

A goalless and largely uninspiring draw at the Emirates did little to build momentum for Mikel Arteta’s side ahead of a potentially decisive Premier League clash away to Manchester City on Sunday.

Arsenal have managed just one win in their last five matches across all competitions, a spell that also includes defeat to City in the League Cup final and an FA Cup exit at the hands of second-tier Southampton.

“Positivity all the way,” Rice added. “It doesn’t matter what people say. The only thing that counts is what this group believes and what the manager believes. We’re in another semi-final, and I’m really pleased.”

Manchester City sit six points behind Arsenal at the top of the table but have a game in hand and will also enjoy home advantage when the two sides meet this weekend.

“Our record this season across all competitions has been incredible,” Rice said.

“It comes down to how much you want it. I know I’ll be ready, and I know the boys will be ready too. Let’s go!”