
Arsenal Stun Real Madrid 5-1 on Aggregate to Reach UCL Semis, Saka and Martinelli Seal Famous Win
Madrid, April 17, 2025:
Arsenal delivered a performance for the ages as they knocked out reigning champions Real Madrid with a 2-1 win at the Santiago Bernabeu, sealing a 5-1 aggregate victory to advance to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2009.
Goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli either side of a Vinicius Jr. strike ended Real’s campaign, and ensured Mikel Arteta’s side will now face Paris Saint-Germain in the last four.
Despite an early missed Panenka penalty, Saka kept his cool later in the game to lift a delicate finish over Thibaut Courtois. While Vinicius Jr. briefly restored hope for the home crowd following a mistake from William Saliba, Arsenal maintained their composure, and Martinelli sealed the win in stoppage time after a breakaway started by goalkeeper David Raya.
Real Madrid’s attack—featuring Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Mbappe—struggled to break through a well-organized Arsenal defense. A potential penalty for a foul by Rice on Mbappe was overturned by VAR, further frustrating the hosts.
Arteta praised his team’s resilience and composure:
“To win at the Bernabeu, against a team with that legacy, it’s an incredible achievement. The players deserve every bit of praise.”
Declan Rice, who led by example in midfield, added:
“We knew we’d suffer, but we believed we’d win. This club is building something special.”
Arsenal will take on Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League 2025.
Arsenal, Real Madrid, Champions League 2025, Mikel Arteta, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Declan Rice, PSG vs Arsenal, UEFA Champions League, Santiago Bernabeu, UCL Semi-final, Carlo Ancelotti, Vinicius Jr, Mbappe, football news
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