Arsenal have reached the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2009 after a historic victory over Real Madrid.
The Gunners secured a 5-1 aggregate win against the defending champions, following up their impressive 3-0 first-leg triumph with a 2-1 victory at the Bernabeu.
Mikel Arteta’s side showed remarkable composure across both legs to dismantle the Spanish giants.
Real Madrid were unable to mount their trademark European comeback despite the intimidating atmosphere of their home ground.
Arsenal managed a 2-1 win over Real Madrid in a 5-1 aggregate victory
Reuters
The comprehensive victory sets up a mouth-watering semi-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain.
The first leg at the Emirates saw Arsenal build their commanding advantage with a stunning performance.
The comprehensive home victory laid the foundation for Arsenal’s historic progression to the final four of Europe’s premier club competition.
The second leg in Madrid proved to be a nervy affair despite Arsenal’s commanding aggregate lead.
VAR played a significant role, with Bukayo Saka missing an early penalty after his attempted ‘Panenka’ was saved by Thibaut Courtois.
Real Madrid were then awarded a spot kick when Kylian Mbappe went down after contact from Declan Rice, but it was overturned following a VAR review.
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Gabriel Martinelli made sure Arsenal left Real Madrid with a win
Reuters
Saka redeemed himself after the break with a superb lifted finish to put Arsenal ahead on the night.
William Saliba’s error allowed Vinicius Junior to equalise, but the visitors remained comfortable.
Gabriel Martinelli sealed the victory in added time, breaking clear and slotting home to make it 2-1 on the night.
Declan Rice described the victory as “a special night” for the historic club.
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Vinicius Jr had scored an equaliser but it was as good as it got for Real Madrid
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“We had so much belief and confidence from that first leg and come here to win the game. We knew we was going to suffer but we knew we was going to win,” said the midfielder.
Rice defended his challenge on Mbappe that initially resulted in a penalty.
“I knew it wasn’t a penalty. I had my arm on him but you have to do that in the box,” he explained.
Looking ahead to facing PSG, Rice acknowledged the challenge.
“They’re a top team. We saw what Villa did last night and caused them lots of problems, so we’ll be working hard.”
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