Arsenal delivered a performance of maturity, control, and clinical finishing to book their place in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2008/09.
Defeating defending champions Real Madrid 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu on the night—and 5-1 on aggregate—the Gunners ended a 16-year wait with a commanding display that showcased the tactical brilliance of Mikel Arteta and the relentless execution by his players.
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Early Wobble, Swift Redemption
The tone was set from the first whistle. Bukayo Saka, electric and ever-involved, missed an early opportunity from the penalty spot after Raúl Asencio brought down Mikel Merino. Thibaut Courtois denied the Englishman with a fingertip save, reinvigorating the home supporters.
But the miss only galvanized Arsenal further. Saka remained at the heart of every attack, firing a warning shot narrowly wide before drawing another save from Courtois. Arsenal had clearly come to play, unshaken by the magnitude of the occasion or the pedigree of their opponents.
Midfield Authority and Defensive Discipline
Mikel Arteta named an unchanged starting XI from the first leg, signaling trust in a side that had dismantled Madrid 3-0 in London. On the opposite bench, Carlo Ancelotti shuffled his deck—reinstating Aurélien Tchouaméni after suspension and introducing Lucas Vázquez. However, even with fresh legs, Madrid looked second best.
Declan Rice was omnipresent in midfield, dictating tempo and nullifying Real’s transition. His influence, coupled with Martin Ødegaard’s intelligent positioning, suffocated Madrid’s creativity. The hosts were restricted to a single attempt on target before the break, a tame shot from Vinícius Júnior that floated into David Raya’s gloves.
Saka Strikes, Arsenal Soar
After the interval, Arteta’s men picked up where they left off. A breathtaking passage of play saw Saka play a one-two with Ødegaard, who combined with Rice before feeding the winger again. This time, Saka made no mistake, deftly chipping the ball over Courtois to break the deadlock and silence the Bernabéu.
Four goals up on aggregate, Arsenal’s focus never wavered. Even when Vinícius Júnior clawed one back after dispossessing William Saliba and firing past Raya, the Gunners never appeared rattled. Their defensive structure held, anchored by Gabriel and Saliba’s partnership and the composure of Jorginho off the bench.
Final Blow and Celebratory Scenes
In stoppage time, Arsenal landed the final blow. Merino—whose work rate had been immense—slotted a perfect ball through for Gabriel Martinelli. The Brazilian coolly side-footed past Courtois to seal a memorable night.
The numbers speak volumes: Arsenal have now won seven of their last eight Champions League matches, drawing the other. They’ve also triumphed in four consecutive away fixtures in Europe’s elite competition. Their 30 goals in this campaign mark a club record in a single UCL edition.
Tactical Brilliance Overcomes Legacy
While Real Madrid’s history in the competition is unparalleled, this night belonged to Arsenal. Arteta’s blueprint was executed to near-perfection—compact spacing, controlled pressing, and purposeful possession. “This was a tactical and strategic masterclass where the Gunners’ players – students of Señor Arteta the professor – hit something like perfection.”
Even Madrid’s historical figures had milestones to remember: Jude Bellingham matched Iker Casillas’ record of 47 Champions League appearances under the age of 22, while Luka Modrić overtook Karim Benzema in UCL appearances for the club. But the night’s narrative was painted in red and white.
Eyes on Paris: A Semi-Final Dream Reignited
Next, Arsenal face Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals—a blockbuster encounter loaded with narratives and promise. If this performance is any indicator, the Gunners have both the confidence and cohesion to dream even bigger.
In Madrid, they didn’t just beat the holders—they controlled, outplayed, and dismantled them across 180 minutes. Arsenal’s faithful roared as their team walked off with heads high and hearts full. The journey isn’t over, but this chapter might just be one of the most significant in the club’s European history.
FAQs
How did Arsenal qualify for the Champions League semi-finals?
Arsenal defeated Real Madrid 5-1 on aggregate, including a 2-1 win at the Santiago Bernabéu, to reach their first semi-final since 2008/09.
Who scored for Arsenal against Real Madrid in the second leg?
Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli scored for Arsenal in the 2-1 victory in Madrid.
What was the aggregate score between Arsenal and Real Madrid?
The aggregate score was 5-1 in favour of Arsenal over two legs.
When was Arsenal’s last Champions League semi-final appearance before this?
Arsenal last reached the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in the 2008/09 season.
Who did Real Madrid bring back into the starting XI for the second leg?
Aurélien Tchouaméni returned from suspension, and Lucas Vázquez replaced Luka Modrić in the Real Madrid starting lineup.
