Arsenal's long-awaited return to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals became a reality tonight as they defeated Real Madrid 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu. This victory sealed a commanding 5-1 aggregate win, marking the Gunners' first semi-final appearance in 16 years.
The match was a showcase of resilience and tactical brilliance. Arsenal's Bukayo Saka redeemed himself after an early penalty miss by scoring a sublime goal in the 66th minute, chipping Real Madrid's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois with finesse. Real Madrid responded swiftly, with VinÃcius Júnior capitalizing on a defensive lapse to equalize just a minute later. However, Gabriel Martinelli's late strike in stoppage time extinguished any hopes of a Madrid comeback, cementing Arsenal's dominance.
The game was not without drama. A controversial VAR decision in the first half overturned a penalty awarded to Real Madrid, adding to the tension of the high-stakes encounter. Arsenal's defensive solidity, led by Declan Rice and William Saliba, proved pivotal in thwarting Madrid's relentless attacks.
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