The tone was set early. Though Saka missed a first-half penalty that might have secured Arsenal’s passage sooner, the young winger never let the moment define him. Nor did the team. They were undaunted by the history, the occasion, or the heavyweight opposition. While others have wilted at the Bernabéu under the pressure of legacy and legend, Arsenal remained assured.
The 3-0 first-leg cushion was never seriously threatened. Even when Real Madrid were handed a bizarre equaliser on the night — a moment that might have sparked panic in years past — Arsenal stayed calm. The so-called spell of the Bernabéu was broken. Arsenal had come not just to survive, but to assert.
And assert they did. Saka’s second-half goal, a reward for sustained pressure and smart build-up play, effectively sealed the tie. It was a portrait of their play throughout: patient, precise, and mature. And just when Madrid looked stretched, Gabriel Martinelli raced through the heart of what remained of the home defence and coolly slotted past Thibaut Courtois, underlining Arsenal’s dominance.
The result was no fluke. Over two legs, Arsenal were clearly the better side — tactically disciplined, technically assured, and emotionally unshaken. The 2-1 win in Madrid, layered on top of their 3-0 dismantling in London, marked a 5-1 aggregate victory that left no room for doubt.
Above the Bernabéu’s steep terraces, Arsenal fans sang in celebration, recognising a night that may come to symbolise a turning point. Against the most successful club in European football, Arsenal had not only stood tall — they had soared.
 "UCL 2025 Q/F highlights: Arsenal thrash Real Madrid 5-1 (Agg); Inter beat Bayern")
