Arsenal Make History with Thrilling 2-1 Win at the Bernabeu

Strategic Insights -

Mikel Arteta's team has become the first English team to win in the Bernabeu twice, following their historic victory against Real Madrid. The momentum is now with Arsenal as they progress to the Champions League semi-finals, where they will face Paris St Germain. Despite Bukayo Saka missing a crucial penalty, Gabriel Martinelli scored the winning goal in stoppage time, securing a crushing 5-1 aggregate victory.

Key Takeaways:

  • Arsenal has made history by becoming the first English team to win in the Bernabeu twice, following Thierry Henry's masterclass nearly two decades ago.
  • Mikel Arteta praised his team's maturity, saying they showed they were ready to compete against anyone after their historic win.
  • The victory marked a significant milestone for Arsenal, who will now face Paris St Germain in the semi-finals, a competition they have not reached since 2006.
  • Declan Rice's set-piece double at the Emirates last week had given Arsenal a 3-0 advantage, and they held on to see out the win despite Real Madrid's fightback.
  • Real Madrid's defeat has placed doubt over Carlo Ancelotti's future as manager, with the Italian saying he may be replaced at the end of his contract, which is due to expire next year.
  • Arteta revealed he phoned Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola ahead of Wednesday's fixture, citing Guardiola as an inspiration and expressing gratitude for the time they spent together at the Etihad.

Statistics:

  • Arsenal has scored 5 goals in aggregate against Real Madrid, securing a 5-1 victory.
  • Bukayo Saka had the opportunity to kill the tie with a penalty in the 13th minute, but Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois saved it with his left arm.
  • Arsenal's midfield, a key area of focus before the game, performed significantly well, with Saka and Martinelli scoring crucial goals.
  • The defeat marks Real Madrid's first loss in the Champions League this season, and their first in the Bernabeu since 2020.

Sources:

  • Mikel Arteta, "We Are Ready to Compete Against Anyone" (PA Wire)
  • Carlo Ancelotti, "Maybe the Club Decides to Replace Me" (PA Wire)
  • PA Wire, "Arsenal Beats Real Madrid 2-1 in Thrilling Champions League Match" (PA Wire)