Champions League Win Over Madrid a “Statement to Europe”
Bukayo Saka believes Arsenal’s stunning 2-1 win over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu sends a clear message across the continent: the Gunners are back among Europe’s elite.
With a commanding 5-1 aggregate triumph over the defending champions, Arsenal have qualified for their first UEFA Champions League semi-final since 2009, and Saka insists it was more than just a win.
“We showed that we can play in Europe and beat one of the best teams in the world, home and away. Very proud of this team,” the England forward said.
“Tonight was a big statement and I am so happy for everyone.”
🎯 Redemption After Missed Penalty
Saka’s big moment came shortly after a setback. His Panenka-style penalty attempt was saved by Thibaut Courtois early in the first half. But the 22-year-old quickly responded, scoring Arsenal’s opener with a confident finish that silenced the Bernabéu.
“It can happen. I tried something, but it didn’t work. I was confident I was going to score tonight,” he said.
“I learn in every moment. Tonight, I am more focused on enjoying the win and then I will review it properly.”
His response was emblematic of Arsenal’s maturity and resilience throughout the tie.
Video edited on Kapwing
Arteta: “We Can Compete With Any Team”
Manager Mikel Arteta was full of praise for his side, calling the victory “one of the best moments of his career.” The Spaniard, who was part of Arsenal’s coaching staff during their Europa League rebuild, now has them one step away from a Champions League final.
“I’m really proud of the players. After two or three minutes, you realise anything can happen,” Arteta said.
“But we showed tonight we can compete against any team.”
🆚 PSG Next: Familiar Foes With New Firepower
Arsenal will now face Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-final. The French side eliminated Liverpool and Aston Villa en route to the last four and are seeking their first UCL title.
Saka expects a strong challenge.
“I see them playing with much more confidence. We will be ready and it will be a very good match,” he added.
Arteta, who spent time at PSG as a player, warned that this version of PSG is different from the group-stage team Arsenal beat earlier this season.
“They are a different team now and are on an incredible run. I know the manager really well. But we’ve shown what we’re capable of.”
📆 Arsenal’s Champions League Journey
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✅ Quarter-final: Real Madrid (5-1 on aggregate)
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🔜 Semi-final: Paris Saint-Germain (First leg at the Emirates, late April)
If Arsenal win, they’ll reach the final for the first time since their heartbreaking 2006 loss to Barcelona.
🔥 Gunners Announce Their Return
After years in the Champions League wilderness, Arsenal’s resounding win over Real Madrid marks their return to football’s biggest stage. From Saka’s coming-of-age performance to Arteta’s tactical discipline, this is a team no one can afford to underestimate.
“We showed that we can beat one of the best teams in the world,” said Saka.
The message is clear: Arsenal’s Champions League win is a statement—and Europe is listening.