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Arsenal delivered a statement performance at the Santiago Bernabéu, completing a 5-1 aggregate demolition of reigning Champions League holders Real Madrid to reach the semi-finals for just the third time in their history.
Bukayo Saka overcame an early penalty miss to inspire the Gunners to victory in a fiery, drama-filled second leg in Madrid. Leading 3-0 from the first leg, Arsenal were awarded a golden chance to extend their advantage inside 13 minutes—but Saka’s tame Panenka attempt was easily saved by Thibaut Courtois.
Rather than crumble under the pressure, Saka bounced back brilliantly in the second half. After a clever pass from Mikel Merino, he coolly chipped the Belgian keeper to all but seal Arsenal’s progression.
Real Madrid briefly threatened a revival when William Saliba’s uncharacteristic error gifted Vinicius Jr. a goal just two minutes later. But the hosts failed to build on that momentum, and Gabriel Martinelli struck on the counter in stoppage time—again assisted by Merino—to seal an unforgettable 2-1 win on the night and a commanding 5-1 victory on aggregate.
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The hosts thought they had a lifeline earlier in the game when the referee pointed to the spot for an alleged foul on Kylian Mbappe. But after a lengthy VAR review, the decision was overturned, with replays showing minimal contact from Declan Rice.
Mikel Arteta’s men now march on to face Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals, full of belief and brimming with momentum.
A new era is truly dawning in North London.
