Arsenal secured a historic 2-1 victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on April 16, 2025, completing a 5-1 aggregate win to advance to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2009.
The match began with high intensity. In the 10th minute, Arsenal were awarded a penalty after a VAR review, but Bukayo Saka’s Panenka attempt was saved by Thibaut Courtois. Real Madrid thought they had a penalty in the 23rd minute, but it was overturned due to an offside call. Tensions flared during halftime when Real Madrid’s Dani Carvajal grabbed Saka by the neck, leading to a brief altercation that was quickly diffused by teammates.
In the second half, Saka redeemed himself by scoring in the 65th minute, giving Arsenal the lead. However, Real Madrid responded swiftly, with Vinícius Júnior equalizing just two minutes later after a defensive lapse. As the match approached its conclusion, Gabriel Martinelli scored in stoppage time, sealing the 2-1 victory for Arsenal.
Arsenal’s defense, led by William Saliba and Declan Rice, remained resolute throughout the match. Despite Real Madrid’s 66% possession and numerous attempts, they struggled to break down Arsenal’s organized defense. The result marks one of Arsenal’s most impressive European performances, reminiscent of their historic wins against Juventus and Milan.
With this victory, Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals, aiming to continue their remarkable Champions League campaign.
