Gabriel Martinelli scored a dramatic stoppage-time goal to seal Arsenal’s 5-1 aggregate victory over holders Real Madrid, sending the Gunners into the UEFA Champions League semifinals for the first time since 2009. Leading 3-0 from the first leg, Arsenal successfully thwarted Real’s hopes of a famous comeback and advanced in style, with goals from Bukayo Saka and Martinelli either side of Vinícius Júnior’s 67th-minute reply.
The match began with an early chance for Saka, who missed a penalty in the 13th minute when Thibaut Courtois saved his Panenka attempt. Real Madrid thought they had a chance to level things when Kylian Mbappé was awarded a penalty after a challenge from Declan Rice, but a five-minute VAR check saw the decision overturned. Real’s attacking struggles continued as they failed to register a single shot on target throughout the game.
Arsenal took control in the 65th minute, when Saka redeemed his earlier penalty miss with a well-taken goal, breaking the offside trap to lift Mikel Merino’s through ball over Courtois. However, a lapse in concentration from William Saliba allowed Vinícius Júnior to respond immediately, pulling one back for Real just two minutes later.
Despite the setback, Arsenal held firm and, with Real pushing for a late equalizer, Martinelli broke clear on a counterattack and slotted a low finish past Courtois in the dying moments, securing the victory.
Arsenal now face Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals, although they will be without Thomas Partey, who picked up a booking for a shove on Dani Ceballos and will miss the first leg.
Arteta’s Tactical Mastery Shines in Historic Night
Mikel Arteta’s tactical acumen was on full display as he masterminded a victory over Real Madrid that will rank as one of the finest achievements of his managerial career. Having previously won the 2019-20 FA Cup, Arteta’s handling of this two-legged quarterfinal against the 15-time European champions displayed a perfect balance of bravery and caution, ensuring his side overcame the challenge.
Despite facing an experienced manager in Carlo Ancelotti, who has won the Champions League five times, Arteta outmaneuvered his counterpart across both legs, securing Arsenal’s place in the semifinals with maturity and composure.
