Arsenal are through to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2009 after completing a resounding 5-1 aggregate victory over holders Real Madrid.

The Gunners followed up their 3-0 first-leg win in London with a confident display in Madrid, highlighted by Bukayo Saka’s redemption after an early penalty miss.

Mikel Arteta named an unchanged side, while Real Madrid restored Aurélien Tchouaméni and brought in Lucas Vázquez, seeking a midfield boost. Arsenal started brightly, with Saka proving a constant threat.

He forced Thibaut Courtois into two early saves and earned a penalty after Raúl Asencio fouled Mikel Merino. However, Courtois denied Saka’s chipped attempt, briefly reviving hope among the home supporters.

Arsenal’s defensive discipline limited Madrid’s chances, with David Raya called into action only after the break to save from Vinícius Júnior.

Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti responded with a triple substitution, including 18-year-old Endrick, but Arsenal remained composed.

The breakthrough came as Saka finished off a slick move he started, collecting Merino’s pass and chipping Courtois for Arsenal’s fourth goal of the tie.

Madrid responded quickly through Vinícius Júnior, but Arsenal’s control never wavered. Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard continued to orchestrate play, with Ødegaard testing Courtois again in added time.

Arsenal capped their performance with a late goal from Gabriel Martinelli, who finished a swift counterattack to seal the result. The Gunners’ tactical discipline, attacking flair, and defensive solidity proved decisive, as they ended Real Madrid’s reign and booked their place in the semi-finals, marking a significant milestone in the club’s European journey.

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