Arsenal delivered a commanding performance at the Santiago Bernabéu, defeating Real Madrid 2-1 in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final on April 16, 2025. This victory secured a 5-1 aggregate win, propelling the Gunners into their first semi-final appearance since 2009.
Bukayo Saka opened the scoring in the 65th minute, redeeming himself after an earlier missed penalty. Real Madrid responded swiftly, with Vinícius Júnior equalizing two minutes later following a defensive lapse by William Saliba. In stoppage time, Gabriel Martinelli capitalized on a counterattack to seal the win for Arsenal.
The match was marked by high tension and pivotal VAR decisions. Saka’s first-half penalty was saved by Thibaut Courtois, and a potential penalty for Real Madrid was overturned upon review. Despite Madrid’s dominance in possession and numerous crosses, they struggled to break down Arsenal’s organized defense.
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Arsenal’s progression to the semi-finals sets up a clash with Paris Saint-Germain, highlighting the team’s growth and resilience under manager Mikel Arteta.
