The dream of a miraculous comeback vanished in the electrified atmosphere of the Santiago-Bernabéu. Arsenal, unshaken by the spanish giant’s legendary resilience, showcased remarkable composure to secure their place in the Champions League semifinals.
Despite an attacking trio of Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Jr, and Rodrygo, Real Madrid never truly threatened to overturn the damaging 3-0 deficit from the first leg. Instead, the London side dictated the tempo, soaked up pressure, and clinically finished the job with goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.
Photos : Real Madrid/Arsenal/Uefa/DR
Real Madrid’s nerves get the best of them
From the opening whistle, Real Madrid appeared fueled by raw emotion rather than strategic precision. The home fans erupted as Kylian Mbappé found the net just two minutes into the game, but celebrations were swiftly silenced, VAR ruled the French star offside. The early setback set the tone for a frustrating night, with misplaced passes, rushed decisions, and unconvincing defensive efforts exposing Madrid’s vulnerability.
Arsenal, on the other hand, demonstrated controlled aggression.
Bukayo Saka, sharp from the outset, tested Thibaut Courtois twice in quick succession (7th, 8th minute). When the gunners won a penalty in the 11th minute, it seemed like the final dagger. However, Courtois stood tall, denying Saka’s audacious Panenka attempt (13th minute). Briefly, the miss gave Madrid hope, but that optimism faded when another VAR intervention overturned a penalty initially awarded to Kylian Mbappé (23rd minute). With frustration mounting, Carlo Ancelotti’s men struggled to generate real danger before halftime.
Photos : Real Madrid/Arsenal/Uefa/DR
Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli seal Arsenal’s triumph
Arsenal’s control translated into a decisive breakthrough in the second half. A dazzling team move saw Bukayo Saka clinically finish at the 64th minute, delivering a near-fatal blow to Madrid’s ambitions. Although Vinicius Jr capitalized on a defensive lapse from William Saliba to equalize (68th minute), it was too little, too late—the Spanish side simply lacked the firepower to complete the comeback. As desperation took hold, Madrid threw everything forward. Yet their attempts fell short, Thibaut Courtois made a fine late stop, Endrick missed his chance, and ultimately, Gabriel Martinelli delivered the final punch, finishing off a swift counterattack (90+3rd minute) to secure Arsenal’s victory.
Photos : Real Madrid/Arsenal/Uefa/DR
A High-Stakes battle awaits against PSG
As the final whistle blew, Arsenal’s players erupted in celebration. Their dream continues, but the road ahead is fierce. Awaiting them in the semifinals is Paris Saint-Germain, a matchup that promises fireworks and drama. One thing is certain, Arsenal has proven they have what it takes to compete with the elite.
Photos : Real Madrid/Arsenal/Uefa/DR
