The Gunners, often seen as underdogs against the 14-time European champions, came out with purpose, precision, and poise. A sold-out crowd in North London witnessed a masterclass from Mikel Arteta's men, who took full control of the tie ahead of the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.
First Half: Arsenal Strike Early
Arsenal wasted no time setting the tone. Just 12 minutes in, Bukayo Saka broke the deadlock with a clinical finish after a quick counter-attack led by Martin Ødegaard and Gabriel Jesus. The English winger’s low shot beat Thibaut Courtois at the near post, sending the Emirates into a frenzy.
Real Madrid, stunned by the pace and intensity of Arsenal's press, struggled to find rhythm. Jude Bellingham and Luka Modrić were hounded in midfield, with Declan Rice and Jorginho bossing the central areas.
In the 34th minute, Arsenal doubled their lead. A curling corner from Ødegaard found William Saliba, who rose above Antonio Rüdiger to head the ball powerfully into the net. The home side were cruising as Real Madrid looked rattled.
Second Half: Total Control
Despite expectations that Madrid would fight back after the break, Arsenal maintained dominance. The third goal came in the 62nd minute through Gabriel Martinelli, who latched onto a perfectly weighted pass from Kai Havertz. The Brazilian cut inside Dani Carvajal and slotted it calmly past Courtois to make it 3-0.
Real Madrid pushed forward in the final 20 minutes, but Aaron Ramsdale made a crucial save to deny VinÃcius Jr. in the 78th minute. Aside from that, the Spanish giants failed to register any significant threat.
Key Performers
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Bukayo Saka – Lively and relentless on the wing, his goal and overall play tormented Madrid's defense.
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Martin Ødegaard – Pulled the strings in midfield against his former club, providing two assists.
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William Saliba – A rock at the back and capped his performance with a crucial goal.
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Declan Rice – Dominated the midfield battle and broke up countless Madrid attacks.
What’s Next?
Arsenal now head into the second leg in Madrid with a commanding 3-0 lead, dreaming of a Champions League semi-final spot for the first time since 2009. For Real Madrid, it's a mountain to climb, and Carlo Ancelotti will need to inspire a historic comeback at the Bernabéu.
If tonight’s performance is anything to go by, Arsenal are not just participating in this Champions League — they’re contending.
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