By Martin Graham
Arsenal delivered a night to remember in Spain, edging past Real Madrid 2-1 at the Bernabeu to secure their place in the Champions League semi-finals for only the third time in the club’s history, and the first since 2009. Backed by a dominant 3-0 result from the opening leg, the Gunners navigated a charged atmosphere and came out on top despite some nervy moments.
Bukayo Saka saw his attempt at a cheeky Panenka saved early in the game, while Kylian Mbappe had a spot-kick later ruled out after a lengthy VAR review. Saka eventually opened the scoring in the second half, and although William Saliba’s mistake handed Vinicius Junior an equalizer, Gabriel Martinelli’s late goal sealed the result for the visitors.
Manager Mikel Arteta called it “one of the best nights” of his managerial journey, highlighting the significance of the win over the club with the most European titles. He praised his players for stepping up on the big stage and insisted that the team must continue building from this platform. Former forward Theo Walcott declared the team mentally prepared for elite competition, calling the performance a defining moment.
Saka bounces back and Rice shines brightest
Saka’s saved penalty could have altered the tie’s direction, but the young forward responded impressively, showing resilience and maturity. Post-match, he admitted his miss was a learning experience, while Arteta joked he felt like giving him a slap. Nonetheless, the coach was full of praise for how Saka responded during the remainder of the match, especially after a half-time altercation with Dani Carvajal.
Declan Rice stood out across both legs of the quarter-final, delivering an all-action display in Madrid following his two superb free kicks in the home leg. The England international dominated midfield, offering both defensive solidity and attacking presence. Real Madrid failed to register a shot on target until well into the second half, a testament to Arsenal’s disciplined shape and control.
The Gunners’ effectiveness was even more impressive given the absences of key forwards like Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz. Mikel Merino operated as a false nine in a system designed meticulously by Arteta, who even consulted Pep Guardiola and simulated pressure situations during training to prepare for Madrid’s threat.
Arsenal eye PSG clash after proving European mettle
Next up for Arsenal is a semi-final meeting with Paris St-Germain, who boast a dynamic, youthful side with flair and depth. While PSG are tipped by some to lift their first European trophy, Arsenal’s strong defensive record and past experience against the French champions – including a 2-0 win earlier this season – give them reasons for belief.
Analyst Julien Laurens noted PSG’s array of attacking options and outstanding full-backs, naming Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes as possibly the best in Europe. He also pointed out that the midfield trio and attackers like Dembele, Kvaratskhelia, and Doue can cause problems for any side.
Despite PSG’s strength, their shaky second-leg showing against Aston Villa has exposed some vulnerability under pressure. Arsenal, meanwhile, have built a reputation for performing in big matches. Arteta’s team is unbeaten against the Premier League’s traditional top six over the past two seasons and appears to have overcome their previous inferiority complex in such fixtures.
What once was seen as a team lacking big-game temperament now looks like one rising to the occasion – and with their renewed belief, they will head into the semi-final with confidence.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer
