Arsenal Stun Real Madrid to Reach Champions League Semifinals After 16 Years

5-1 Aggregate Victory Sends Gunners Into Clash With PSG

Madrid, April 17, 2025 — In a stunning display of resilience and tactical brilliance, Arsenal FC have booked their place in the UEFA Champions League semifinals for the first time since 2009, defeating reigning champions Real Madrid with a commanding 5-1 aggregate score. The Gunners secured a 2-1 win in the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday night, following their dominant 3-0 victory in the first leg at home.

This milestone win not only ends Arsenal’s 16-year wait for a semifinal berth but also firmly re-establishes them as serious contenders in Europe’s elite club competition. Mikel Arteta’s side will now face Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in a highly anticipated semifinal clash.

First Leg Dominance Set the Tone

Arsenal laid the foundation for their aggregate win with a commanding 3-0 triumph in London, giving them a comfortable cushion heading into the away leg. On Wednesday, they adopted a more defensive approach, tactfully stifling Madrid’s aggressive advances and maintaining control of the tempo.

Despite the pressure from Real Madrid, Arsenal maintained discipline at the back, minimizing goal-scoring opportunities for the Spanish side.

Saka Misses Penalty, Then Strikes First Blood

Early in the game, Arsenal were awarded a penalty after a VAR review spotted a foul by Raul Asensio on Mikel Merino. However, Bukayo Saka’s penalty was saved by Thibaut Courtois, momentarily shifting momentum.

Saka redeemed himself in the 65th minute, curling in a superb goal to give Arsenal a 1-0 lead in the match and a 4-0 aggregate advantage.

Vinicius Junior briefly revived Madrid’s hopes, capitalizing on a defensive error just two minutes later to equalize. But Real’s rhythm was disrupted when star forward Kylian Mbappe was forced off the pitch due to injury.

In stoppage time, Gabriel Martinelli sealed the deal with a precise finish, putting the tie beyond reach and sending Arsenal fans into jubilation.

Madrid Falter as Arsenal Rise

Real Madrid, who won the Champions League and La Liga last season, looked uncharacteristically sluggish across both legs. Their top scorers failed to click, and Mbappe’s injury only added to the team’s woes. The loss marks a disappointing end to what was expected to be another strong campaign.

With this result, Arsenal have now reached the Champions League semifinals for only the third time in the club’s history. The Gunners will now prepare to face a high-flying PSG side in what promises to be an electrifying encounter.