Arsenal delivered a commanding performance at the Santiago Bernabéu to eliminate reigning champions Real Madrid and book their place in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2009. After a dominant 3-0 first-leg win at the Emirates, the Gunners held their nerve and sealed a 2-1 victory in Spain, completing a 5-1 aggregate triumph over the 15-time European champions.
The build-up was dominated by talk of a potential remontada, the famed Madrid comeback, but Mikel Arteta’s side silenced the Bernabéu early on and never looked like surrendering their advantage. Real’s hopes of an early boost were dashed when Kylian Mbappé had a goal ruled out for offside in the opening minutes.
Arsenal, however, quickly settled and created the better chances. Bukayo Saka, Arsenal's star winger, had an early shot saved by Thibaut Courtois before being handed a chance to extend the lead from the penalty spot. A VAR review spotted Raul Asencio pulling back Mikel Merino at a corner, and referee François Letexier pointed to the spot. But Saka’s attempted Panenka was easily saved by Courtois his third penalty save in six Champions League appearances.
Minutes later, Real were awarded a penalty of their own when Mbappé went down under pressure from Declan Rice. However, after a six-minute VAR check, the decision was reversed, sparking fury among the home fans.
The rest of the first half saw Real Madrid dominate possession but fail to register a single shot on target, while Arsenal remained disciplined and composed. The hosts came out more aggressive after the break, but Arsenal landed the first blow. In the 65th minute, a slick passing move involving Martin Ødegaard and Mikel Merino set Saka through on goal. The winger, unfazed by his earlier miss, calmly lifted the ball over Courtois to give Arsenal a 4-0 aggregate lead.
Real responded almost immediately. William Saliba’s rare lapse allowed Vinícius Júnior to steal possession and score into an empty net after goalkeeper David Raya had been caught out of position. Despite the lifeline, Madrid struggled to find momentum. Their night went from bad to worse when Mbappé limped off injured with 15 minutes remaining.
Arsenal sealed the tie in stoppage time, punishing Madrid on the counter. Gabriel Martinelli broke free and slotted past Courtois to cap a famous 2-1 win on the night and a stunning 5-1 aggregate triumph.
The result marked Arsenal’s first win at the Bernabéu since 2006 and made them the first English team to beat Real Madrid there twice. With Paris Saint-Germain awaiting in the semi-finals, Arsenal now stand just two games away from their first-ever Champions League final. Their tactical discipline, composed defending, and clinical attacking were a masterclass one that might well be studied in years to come.
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