Arsenal has etched their name in the annals of the UEFA champions league by defeating Real Madrid in the quarter finals , securing a spot in the semi-finals for the first time since the 2008-2009 season. They successfully clinched a 5-1 aggregate victory after beating the Les Blancos at the Santiago Bernabeu 1-2 . Standout performances were delivered by Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli respectively.
Prior to yesterday's match I couldn't just get enough of the bants rival fans were dishing out . Both Real Madrid and other rival fans were so damn sure the Les Blancos were going to get a comeback against the Gunners at the Bernabeu.
From "Remontada" chants to talks about closing the roof of the Santiago Bernabeu stadium to Anclotti's comments about "90 minutes in the Bernabeu being a long time to play for " all in the bid to dampen the Gunners morale going into the second leg fixture could not just go unnoticed.
I did find it appalling to find out some football fans actually believed Real Madrid were going to get a comeback despite being 3 goals down against an Arsenal team that hasn't conceded up to three goals since December 2023, that's in almost two years.
That being said , it won't be the first time Arsenal is going to the Bernabeu. It is indeed a familiar terrain for the Gunners . In fact the last time Arsenal played there,the Gunners recorded a win . This was during the period of the Galacticos . So I just find it hard wrapping my head round the hype given to the Bernabeu, at least it shouldn't be this pronounced to a team that has a pedigree like Arsenal .
Big up to Arteta boys , they really showed class and character both in the two quarter final legs . Football fans across the world hardly gave them a chance against the almighty Real Madrid.
Even with the three goals advantage they still felt the boys were incapable of defending the three goal advantage . Such underating and condescending acts is usually replied and silenced with bold statements such as beating the Les Blancos home and away.
If not for Saliba's error leading to Vinicius goal it would have been 5-0 aggregate . This just shows how much confidence Mikel Arteta has instilled in the boys.
The battle is not over yet , as the Gunners progress to the semi-finals stage against an explosive attacking playing side like PSG.
It won't be an easy ride for the Gunners this time around even though we conveniently and comfortably defeated them in group stage. They are now a rejuvenated team and it will take a whole lot to crack this Luis Enrique's team .
I'm certain Arteta and his boys are quite aware of this . It will be the hope of most Arsenal fans to see that Arteta and his wards leave no stone unturned in ensuring Arsenal progress at the Semis.
It's all to play for now Gunners , all fingers are crossed , COYG!! @Ogeewitty what do you have to say to this massive victory??!!馃榿
