Importance Score: 40 / 100 🔵
Arsenal have clinched a coveted spot in the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2009, defeating Real Madrid 2-1 in a compelling away fixture. Despite anticipation of significant pressure at the Santiago Bernabeu following their 3-0 first-leg advantage, the expected Real Madrid offensive onslaught did not fully materialize.
Arsenal Secure Champions League Semi-Final Berth After Madrid Victory
The match unfolded as a narrative of two penalties within the opening half. Bukayo Saka of Arsenal missed an early opportunity from the spot, his attempted Panenka penalty being saved by Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Subsequently, Real Madrid were initially awarded a penalty following a challenge by Declan Rice on Kylian Mbappe, but this decision was overturned after a VAR review.
Saka compensated for his earlier miss by scoring with an elegant, lifted finish after the restart. A defensive error from William Saliba allowed Vinicius Junior to equalize the scoreline for Real Madrid on the night. However, the visiting Arsenal team maintained control, and Gabriel Martinelli secured the victory with a decisive goal in the final moments of the match.
Arsenal Player Ratings vs Real Madrid (4-3-3 Formation)
Player ratings for the Arsenal squad following their Champions League quarter-final second leg match against Real Madrid:
Starting XI
David Raya: 7
Raya experienced an unexpectedly quiet first half, remaining largely untested and not required to make any saves. He continued to be under minimal pressure after halftime and was powerless to prevent Vinicius Jr.’s goal. He demonstrated assurance in collecting crosses and made a crucial save against Brahim Diaz in added time.
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Jurrien Timber: 9
This match marked a coming-of-age performance for Timber in an Arsenal jersey. He consistently denied space to Vinicius Jr., notably thwarting the Brazilian winger’s attack in the first half as he advanced into the penalty area. Timber also showed willingness to contribute in forward positions.
William Saliba: 8
Saliba delivered an exceptional performance until an uncharacteristic error led to Real Madrid’s goal. He effectively contained Kylian Mbappe, frequently dispossessing his French international teammate. Saliba was dominant in aerial duels and provided a sense of composure and assurance to the Arsenal defense, except for the notable mistake.
Jakub Kiwior: 8
Similar to Timber, Kiwior effectively met the challenges posed by Real Madrid’s attack and blocked numerous crosses into the box.
Myles Lewis-Skelly: 7
Lewis-Skelly continues to appear comfortable and confident on the prominent stage. He demonstrated a willingness to advance forward, although one of his runs was cynically halted by Antonio Rudiger, who was fortunate not to face further scrutiny from officials for a stamp on the young midfielder.
Thomas Partey: 8
Partey demonstrated his fitness after a recent knock sustained against Brentford, proving crucial for Arsenal’s midfield stability. A commanding tackle on Jude Bellingham in the first half exemplified his overall robust and effective display. His performance was only marred by a late unnecessary yellow card, resulting in a suspension for the first leg against PSG.
Martin Odegaard: 6
Odegaard exhibited his customary high work rate, but his final execution in attack was lacking. He frequently encountered dead ends in attacking positions and was overshadowed by Rice’s performance, although he contributed to the buildup play leading to Arsenal’s goal.
Declan Rice: 10
Rice delivered a colossal performance across both legs of the quarter-final. He consistently outperformed his England teammate Jude Bellingham, including a crucial covering tackle in the second half. Rice repeatedly disrupted Real Madrid’s attacks and was equally influential in possession. Courtois also struggled to handle Rice’s inswinging corner kicks.
Bukayo Saka: 8
Despite his missed penalty attempt, Saka ultimately delivered a strong performance. He consistently troubled David Alaba throughout the match and remained unfazed by being fouled. Saka compensated for the penalty miss with a composed finish in the second half to score.
Mikel Merino: 8
Merino delivered another impactful performance for Arsenal. He won the penalty for his team, linked up effectively with Odegaard and Rice, and provided the through ball that set up Saka’s goal.
Gabriel Martinelli: 7
Martinelli had two opportunities on his preferred left foot in the second half. He hesitated on the first chance and then forced a save from Courtois on the subsequent opportunity. However, he contributed a significant shift defensively and decisively converted his chance when through on goal in injury time.
Substitutes
Leandro Trossard (for Saka, 77 mins): 6
Trossard had limited time to significantly impact the match outcome.