Last updated on April 17, 2025
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Declan Rice won back to back UEFA Man of the Match against Real Madrid.
Image credit: Fabrizio Romano
On a charged night in Madrid, Arsenal wrote another page in their European story.
They secured a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The result booked their place in the Champions League semi-finals for just the third time in club history—and the first since 2009.
Arriving in Spain with a commanding 3-0 aggregate lead, the Gunners weathered drama, defiance, and a cauldron-like atmosphere to clinch a result that not only sealed progression but also sent a message to Europe’s elite: this Arsenal side means business.
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From Redemption to Resilience
The evening began with tension, heightened by Bukayo Saka’s ill-fated attempt at a Panenka penalty that was easily saved by Thibaut Courtois.
The Real keeper roared, the crowd erupted, and Saka was left with the weight of a missed opportunity.
But rather than shrink under the spotlight, the England winger responded the way great players do—by taking control.
Saka’s breakthrough came in the second half, firing Arsenal ahead and calming nerves.
Even after William Saliba’s misstep gifted Vinicius Jr. an equaliser, Arsenal never wavered.
Gabriel Martinelli’s composed finish late in the game extinguished any Madrid hopes of a miraculous comeback.
Arteta’s Blueprint: Precision, Grit, and Belief
Manager Mikel Arteta called it one of the best nights of his career—and with good reason.
Arsenal executed his plan to perfection, smothering Madrid’s attack, disrupting rhythm, and striking clinically when chances came.
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The Gunners secured a 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, with goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.
Image credit: Premier League
Declan Rice was the heartbeat of the performance.
After his brace of free-kicks in the first leg, he bossed the midfield again, shackling Real’s stars and turning defence into attack seamlessly.
At just 18, Myles Lewis-Skelly also caught the eye, showcasing maturity beyond his years.
Arteta’s methods, including detailed tactical simulations and even a consultation with Pep Guardiola, paid off handsomely.
The Spaniard’s fingerprints were all over the performance: discipline, cohesion, and calm under pressure.
VAR Drama and Mbappé’s Misfire
The match wasn’t without its controversies. Kylian Mbappé appeared to have earned a penalty after going down under Rice’s challenge, but after a lengthy VAR review, the decision was overturned.
The Bernabeu boiled with frustration, while Arsenal regrouped.
“It was embarrassing,” said former Gunner Matt Upson of the Frenchman’s fall. “Mbappé threw himself down—it was the right call to reverse it.”
No Stars, No Problem
Despite lacking a recognised striker—Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel were all sidelined—Arsenal’s false nine approach worked seamlessly.
Mikel Merino slotted into the role with grit and intelligence, keeping the midfield linked and Madrid’s defenders guessing.
Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott praised the harmony of the team: “This is a side with no egos. They’re connected by Arteta’s vision—everyone is on the same wavelength. That’s their strength.”
From Doubt to Belief
Arteta’s journey at Arsenal has been anything but smooth.
With just one FA Cup to show in five years, questions had begun to surface—especially with another Premier League title slipping away and an early FA Cup exit.
But this victory silenced the noise.
Against top-six Premier League opponents, Arsenal haven’t lost in two seasons—a testament to how far they’ve come.
Gone is the inferiority complex. In its place stands a battle-hardened team capable of going toe-to-toe with anyone.
Eyes on Paris
With Paris Saint-Germain next, the task won’t get any easier.
But Arsenal’s European form—only seven goals conceded in 12 games—is the foundation of belief.
They’ve already beaten PSG once this season, though the French side has matured since then.
“Over two legs, PSG can beat anyone,” said French journalist Julien Laurens. “But Arsenal’s organisation and intensity make them a nightmare opponent. This could be the clash of the competition.”
The Fans Believe
Outside the Bernabeu, travelling supporters were euphoric.
“This season has been the most rewarding I can remember,” said one fan. “Given the injuries, the setbacks—nobody thought we’d be here. But Arteta’s built something special.”
