Arsenal Glide Past Real Madrid to Secure Spot in Champions League Semi-Finals

Arsenal has made a triumphant return to the UEFA Champions League (UCL) semi-finals for the first time since 2009, clinching a remarkable 2-1 victory against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, advancing 5-1 on aggregate.

With a comfortable three-goal lead established after Declan Rice’s outstanding performance in the first leg in North London, the Gunners understood the importance of starting strong against the revered 15-time tournament champions.

The visitors adopted a resolute defensive strategy and, after weathering some early Real Madrid pressure, were awarded a golden chance to further extend their lead.

A VAR review found Raul Asencio guilty of a foul on Mikel Merino in the penalty area, but Bukayo Saka’s delicate penalty attempt was brilliantly saved by Thibaut Courtois.

Thankful for that escape, the home side believed they had earned a penalty soon after, only for a lengthy VAR review to dismiss a soft challenge from Rice on Kylian Mbappé.

Real Madrid pressed for a breakthrough as the first half wore on, yet despite their possession, David Raya remained largely untroubled in the Gunners’ goal as Arsenal’s defence held strong, retaining their three-goal aggregate lead at half-time.

With 45 minutes left to salvage their UCL hopes, Los Blancos increased the pressure at the start of the second half; Mbappé headed over from close range, and Vinicius Junior had a curled shot comfortably saved by Raya.

Despite the hosts’ improved effort, it was Arsenal who struck a decisive blow in the 65th minute, as a brilliant team move concluded with Merino setting Saka free on goal. The Englishman made amends for his earlier penalty miss with a deft finish over Courtois, effectively sealing the tie.

Yet Real Madrid, never one to back down, equalised just two minutes later; Vinicius seized on a defensive error from William Saliba to slam the ball into an empty net.

This, however, proved to be merely a consolation, as the Gunners controlled the closing minutes before securing a well-deserved winner deep into stoppage time, courtesy of a breakaway goal from Gabriel Martinelli.

The result sees Arsenal advance for the 19th time in 21 UEFA ties after winning the first leg at home. On the other hand, Real Madrid will be keen to bounce back in their upcoming match against Athletic Club on Sunday, as they aim to claw back Barcelona’s four-point advantage at the top of LaLiga.