Arsenal FC delivered one of the most impressive performances of Mikel Arteta’s tenure to secure a place in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for the first time in 16 years.
The Gunners completed a remarkable double over defending champions Real Madrid, a feat that showcased their tactical discipline and attacking brilliance across both legs.
On a memorable night at the Santiago Bernabeu, Arsenal stunned the Spanish giants with a 2-1 victory, sealing a dominant 5-1 aggregate win. It was a humbling experience for Real Madrid, especially on home soil where they’ve built a reputation as the kings of Europe.
The first half of the second leg remained goalless despite early drama. Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka missed a penalty in the 13th minute, while Real Madrid had a spot-kick decision overturned following a lengthy VAR review. Both teams struggled to find a breakthrough before halftime.
Things shifted after the break when Saka made amends, calmly slotting home after being played through on goal by Mikel Merino. Madrid responded quickly—William Saliba, typically a rock at the back, was dispossessed by Vinicius Jr., who capitalized on the error and slotted into an open net.
With the tie seemingly poised to go the distance, Arsenal struck a late, decisive blow. Gabriel Martinelli burst clear in stoppage time and finished confidently to seal the win and send the Gunners into the semifinals, sparking wild celebrations among the traveling fans.
The first leg at the Emirates had set the tone. Arsenal overwhelmed Real Madrid with a 3-0 win, a masterclass in control and precision. Declan Rice, the £100 million summer signing, was instrumental—scoring two stunning free-kicks in the second half. Merino added a third, giving Arsenal a huge cushion going into the return leg.
Despite the commanding win, Arsenal could have scored more. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, returning from injury, pulled off several top-class saves to keep the scoreline somewhat respectable. Even Madrid’s star midfielder Jude Bellingham admitted his side were lucky not to concede more.
Few would have predicted such dominance from Arsenal—especially against Real Madrid, the most decorated side in Champions League history. But over two legs, Arteta’s side completely outplayed Carlo Ancelotti’s men, showcasing maturity, confidence, and remarkable depth.
Even without key defender Gabriel Magalhães, Arsenal’s backline remained solid. Jakub Kiwior stepped up brilliantly alongside Saliba, neutralizing Madrid’s threats in both matches. Apart from the single lapse that led to Vinicius’ goal, the defense was near flawless.
This result marks a major milestone for Arsenal. Since their heartbreaking loss to Barcelona in the 2006 Champions League final, they’ve only reached the semi-finals once—in 2009—when they were eliminated by Manchester United. That long drought is now over.
Arteta has gradually rebuilt Arsenal into a competitive force in Europe. Despite coming close to winning the Premier League in recent seasons—only to be edged out by Manchester City—this run in the Champions League represents a significant leap forward.
Currently trailing Liverpool in the Premier League, Arsenal might yet finish runners-up again this season. But with their place in the final four of Europe’s elite competition secured, there’s still plenty to fight for. Next up is a clash against Paris Saint-Germain, with a spot in the final—and possibly their first-ever Champions League trophy—on the line.
Given their current form and growing confidence, it’s hard to bet against the Gunners. Under Arteta, Arsenal have evolved into a side full of belief, quality, and the hunger to make history.
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