Arsenal held off Real Madrid to book their place in the Champions League semi-finals with another outstanding performance.
Mikel Arteta’s side took a 3-0 lead into the second leg in the Spanish capital after a sublime showing at home last week, and knew anything bar a total collapse would be enough to take them through to the last four. It appeared they had made the perfect start when they were awarded a penalty after a review by the video assistant referee (VAR), only for Bukayo Saka’s chipped effort from the spot to be saved by Thibaut Courtois.
The visitors were then grateful again for VAR’s intervention after Declan Rice was deemed to have fouled Kylian Mbappe, only for the referee to overturn his decision after consulting the screen. Real Madrid created reasonably few chances thereafter in a lacklustre showing, allowing Saka to atone with a cute finish in the second half to make Arsenal’s position even more secure. Though Vinicius Jr replied rapidly, there was not to be any of Real Madrid’s usual conjuring in this competition as Arsenal held firm for a famous European success, with Gabriel Martinelli adding gloss and securing a victory on the night in stoppage time.
Re-live all the Champions League action with our live blog below:
Real Madrid vs Arsenal LIVE
- REPORT: Arsenal resist Real Madrid’s magic to script new Champions League story
- RATINGS: Declan Rice shines again as Saka and Martinelli score at Bernabeu
- 93’ GOAL! Martinelli puts the icing on the cake for Arsenal (RMA 1-2 ARS)
- 67’ GOAL! Vinicius Jr has an immediate response (RMA 1-1 ARS)
- 65’ GOAL! Saka finishes off fine move to score opener (RMA 0-1 ARS)
- 27’ NO PENALTY! VAR decides that the penalty shouldn’t stand (RMA 0-0 ARS)
- 13’ SAVED! Saka’s penalty is slapped away by Courtois (RMA 0-0 ARS)
Real Madrid CF 1 - 2 Arsenal FC
How Arsenal rose above Real Madrid’s dark arts to answer key Champions League question
09:05 , Miguel DelaneyAs the game at the Bernabeu got into gear, and Real Madrid so struggled to open Arsenal in play, they tried to get at them in a different way. They tried to get into their heads, by getting right in their faces. It was a clear tactic, with Bukayo Saka especially targeted. David Alaba went in on him after four minutes. Jude Bellingham had words for Saka before his missed penalty. Dani Carvajal then tried to goad him after it.
Saka simply rose above it by lifting the ball over Thibaut Courtois for the key goal. That happened, however, because Arsenal stood their ground - and then stood up.
It was perhaps the greatest significance of this tie, beyond Arsenal’s comprehensive victory over two legs. Few would now question their fortitude. No one should be talking about them as a fragile team, or one lacking experience. They are going to be a hard and strong test for anyone.
How Arsenal rose above Real Madrid’s dark arts to answer key question
Mikel Arteta reveals phone call with Pep Guardiola before beating Real Madrid
08:06 , Jamie BraidwoodMikel Arteta revealed he called Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola before leading Arsenal to victory against Real Madrid in the Bernabeu to reach the Champions League semi-finals.
Arteta spent four years working as Guardiola’s assistant at the Etihad and he said he phoned his mentor before the biggest achievement of his coaching career on Wednesday night.
There have been tensions between Arsenal and Manchester City in recent seasons while both teams have challenged for the Premier League title, but Arteta said he wanted to show his appreciation.
Mikel Arteta reveals phone call with Pep Guardiola before beating Real Madrid
Bukayo Saka confronted by Real Madrid star near tunnel in heated moment
07:44 , Jamie BraidwoodBukayo Saka was confronted by Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal as he made his way down the tunnel at half-time of Arsenal’s victory at the Bernabeu.
However, a heated moment came at the half-time break as the players went down the tunnel. Saka was approached by Carvajal, who grabbed the winger and said a word in his ear.
Carvajal, who is currently injured, then pulled Saka back towards him after he turns to walk away. Saka reacted angrily before Carvajal grabbed him by the neck and attempted to follow him.
Bukayo Saka confronted by Real Madrid star near tunnel in heated moment
Declan Rice makes Champions League vow after Arsenal’s ‘special night’
Wednesday 16 April 2025 23:05 , Harry Latham-CoyleDeclan Rice has said Arsenal are intent on winning the Champions League after a “special night” against Real Madrid.
Rice produced a masterful midfield performance to help Mikel Arteta’s side conquer the Bernabeu and win both halves of the tie to dump out the defending champions.
Arsenal booked their spot in a semi-final meeting with Paris Saint-Germain thanks to goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, which added to the 3-0 advantage secured at home last week.
Declan Rice makes Champions League vow after Arsenal’s ‘special night’
Arsenal vs Real Madrid player ratings: Declan Rice shines again as Saka and Martinelli score at Bernabeu
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:57 , Mike JonesArsenal coasted through a 2-1 win to Real Madrid, ending with an aggregate 5-1 victory over two legs in their Champions League quarter-final.
Carlo Ancelotti’s men couldn't to overturn a 3-0 deficit in front of their home fans and tonight belonged to Mikel Arteta’s side as they shocked Madrid, especially with their recent history of overturning losing causes to progress in the Champions League.
Arsenal vs Real Madrid player ratings: Rice shines again as Saka and Martinelli score
'These Arsenal players are ready for the big time now'
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:51 , Charlotte-Marie FordTheo Walcott speaking on MOTD: UEFA Champions League: “Arsenal’s confidence was there before this win - it was there from the 3-0 win in the first leg. Now, though, after beating Real again at the Bernabeu with this performance, I think everyone will take notice, right across Europe.”
On the impact of having Saka on the team, he said: “Look at Bukayo Saka, to miss a penalty in the manner he did but then to still put in a performance like that. He never shied away from the ball and carried on doing his job, but then to get Arsenal’s first goal the way that he did, showed just where he is mentally.
“The same goes for the whole side. Mentally, these Arsenal players are ready for the big time now.”
Arteta praises Rice
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:44 , Charlotte-Marie FordMikel Arteta spoke highly of Rice’s efforts tonight, toTNT Sports :
"Tonight he was immense. He turned the game around in moments when the game was 50-50. He made a difference in the tie."
Arteta says his team are determined to achieve something big
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:39 , Charlotte-Marie FordMikel Arteta speaking to TNT Sports:
“It's one of the best nights of my career. A really special one. We played against a team that have been an inspiration for us in this competition. To win the tie in this manner, we have to be very proud of ourselves."
"It was my first time on that touchline and quickly you realise anything can happen in this stadium. You have to be here to realise that. I got that feeling straightaway. If something goes wrong, they score a goal then it would be game-on. But fortunately things went for us but overall we did what we had to do.
"I have that feeling. It is just the third time in our history we have got this far so we need to build on that. We are hungry. We are a young team that are determined. All these experiences, including myself, will help us to try and achieve something big.
Lewis-Skelly on Bernabeu atmosphere
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:29 , Mike JonesMyles Lewis-Skelly spoke to TNT Sports after the game and was asked about playing at the Bernabeu for the first time.
He said: “It was incredible, when you see it on tv it is a lot different to when you come live so when I first walked out it was a lot. You’ve just got to take in the moment and have fun.
“The fans, they don’t make it easy for us but as a team we knew it was going to be like this when we came. As long as we stuck together and kept backing each other through the highs and lows we knew we’d be fine.”
Arsenal resist Real Madrid’s magic to script new Champions League story
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:21 , Mike JonesArsenal indeed “write their own history”, with the extra flourish that the only remontada was Bukayo Saka’s.
The forward overcame his early penalty miss to score the divine goal that has ultimately eliminated the European champions, with Gabriel Martinelli then killing any dying belief that Real Madrid had to turn a great night into a great win.
There was even the literal lovely touch of how Saka’s penalty was a lifted Panenka gone wrong, only for the forward to lift it over Thibaut Courtois in even better fashion.
Arsenal resist Real Madrid’s magic to script new Champions League story
Rice on penalty incident with Mbappe
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:20 , Mike JonesOne of the earlier talking points of the game was the Real Madrid penalty awarded against Declan Rice who was judged to have pulled down Kylian Mbappe.
After a five minute delay for VAR the decision was overturned.
Rice explained his thoughts on the incident saying: “I knew it wasn’t a penalty. Don’t get me wrong I had my arm on him but you have to do that in the box. I knew it wasn’t a penalty, I’m an honest guy and I said straight away it wasn’t a pen.
“I said to Vazquez I would admit if I pulled him down but he just fell to the floor. I was confident it would get overturned.
“We just had to stay calm, we were a bit naïve at times, and needed to control the game a bit better. It’s a historic night for the club and I’m lost for words.”
'The club are on an upward trajectory'
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:16 , Mike JonesRice also added that Arsenal are growing into a more threatening force and that they can challenge for more trophies in the years to come.
The midfielder revealed: “It’s massive. I sensed it before I signed for the club that we were on an upwards trajectory.
“It’s been tough in the Premier League, this year it has slipped away from us. This club is going to do special things in the next few years.
“Semi-finals is massive for us. We want to take it one step at a time. PSG are next, who are an amazing team.”
'It's a special night'
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:12 , Mike JonesDeclan Rice was given the player of the match award for his performance this evening.
He spoke to TNT Sports after the game and was very pleased with his achievement having also won the award during the first leg at the Emirates.
Rice said: “Back-to-back! It is just such a special night for this club, a historic night for this club. We want to win this competition.
“There was a lot of talk coming here about them coming back because they’ve done it so many times before, but we knew we were going to suffer, and we knew we were going to win.
“What a night for the club.”
Reaction from Ally McCoist
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:08 , Mike JonesThe former Rangers striker and TNT Sports pundit said:
“Those lads deserve to win the game. For me, they have deserved to go get a winning goal.
“That was the mismatch of the season - Gabriel Martinelli against Fran Garcia.
“Nobody can tell me that they don't deserve to win the game tonight.”
FT Real Madrid 1-2 Arsenal (1-5 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:05 , Mike Jones
FT Real Madrid 1-2 Arsenal (1-5 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:04 , Mike JonesArsenal head into the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in 16 years.
They join Barcelona, PSG and Inter Milan who have beaten Bayern Munich on aggregate this evening.
Full-time! Real Madrid 1-2 Arsenal (1-5 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 22:02 , Mike Jones90+5 mins: There goes the whistle.
It was very comfortable in the end. Arsenal have beaten Real Madrid twice in two legs to book their place in the Champions League semi-finals.
To a man the Gunners have been incredible in their last two matches with the European champions.
Real Madrid were never in the tie tonight.
Real Madrid 1-2 Arsenal (1-5 agg) - Gabriel Martinelli, 90+3'
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:58 , Mike JonesGame and tie over!
A sharp break from Arsenal sees Gabriel Martinelli played in behind Fran Garcia.
He drives up the pitch and into the box before slotting the ball past Thibaut Courtois to put the Gunners ahead!
Real Madrid 1-1 Arsenal (1-4 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:55 , Mike Jones90 mins: A decent effort from Brahim Diaz on the right side of the box is smothered by David Raya.
There are resigned faces on the Madrid mans and players. This one isn’t going to go their way.
Five minutes of added time to play.
Real Madrid 1-1 Arsenal (1-4 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:52 , Mike Jones87 mins: Other than the goal that Madrid scored, Arsenal have been very good defensively tonight.
They’ve been organised and well drilled but the hosts haven’t had the best of threats.
Real Madrid 1-1 Arsenal (1-4 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:50 , Mike Jones84 mins: Thomas Partey and Antonio Rudiger have a little barney with both men booked.
The yellow card for Partey means that he will miss the first leg of the semi-final against PSG.
Time is running out for this Real Madrid comeback.
Real Madrid 1-1 Arsenal (1-4 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:45 , Mike Jones81 mins: Vinicius Junior buys a free kick just on the edge of the Arsenal box.
Modric is standing over the ball with Ceballos nearby. A slight touch takes it to the former Arsenal man but Rice sprints forward to charge down the effort.
Real Madrid 1-1 Arsenal (1-4 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:42 , Mike Jones78 mins: Mikel Arteta now makes his first change of the evening with Bukayo Saka walking off having been replaced with Leandro Trossard.
Arsenal have lost one of their main threats but Arteta seems happy with how his team are playing.
Real Madrid 1-1 Arsenal (1-4 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:40 , Mike Jones76 mins: Kylian Mbappe lunges into a tackle on Declan Rice and stays down.
He seems to have a problem with his ankle and hobbles off the pitch to be replaced by Brahim Diaz.
Modric comes on to replace Raul Asencio as well. A tick under 15 minutes to play in Madrid.
Real Madrid 1-1 Arsenal (1-4 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:37 , Mike Jones73 mins: Declan Rice drives forward with the ball and takes it into the box before trying to shoot.
He’s tracked all the way by Aurelien Tchouameni who blocks the effort and earns the ball back for Madrid.
Luka Modric is preparing to come on for the hosts.
Real Madrid 1-1 Arsenal (1-4 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:35 , Mike Jones70 mins: Nothing has changed but everything has.
Arsenal still lead by three goals but Real Madrid have now scored, they know they can do it and they’ll have faith they can overturn this deficit until the final whistle is blown.
Arsenal cannot switch off for a second. William Saliba did so and was punished for it.
GOAL! Real Madrid 1-1 Arsenal (1-4 agg) - Vinicius Jr, 67'
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:33 , Mike JonesImmediate response!
William Saliba is caught napping on the edge of his own box as Arsenal look to play out from the back.
Vinicius takes it off him and pokes it into the net with David Raya out of position.
Game on again.
GOAL! Real Madrid 0-1 Arsenal (0-4 agg) - Bukayo Saka, 65'
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:31 , Mike JonesHuge!
A superb move from Arsenal gives them a firmer grip on a place in the semi-finals.
A long ball forward is headed on by Mikel Merino and taken up by Bukayo Saka.
He gives it to Martin Odegaard and drifts into the the front edge of the box.
Odegaard finds Merino who slips the ball into the area as Saka breaks the line.
He collects the ball and dinks it over Thibaut Courtois to score.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:28 , Mike Jones63 mins: If Arsenal hold on to their lead they’ll make it into their first Champions League semi-final in 16 years.
Jude Bellingham is clipped by Jurrien Timber and wins a free kick close to the halfway line.
Arsenal are defending in numbers and with an intense focus,
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:25 , Mike Jones60 mins: An hour played at the Bernabeu with neither team taking the advantage.
A couple of corners are cleared away by Raya and the Arsenal defence as Carlo Ancelotti prepares a triple change.
Dani Ceballos, Endrick and Fran Garcia are brought on to replace David Alaba, Rodrygo and Lucas Vazquez.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:21 , Mike Jones57 mins: Arsenal hold onto possession before Martinelli loses it on the edge of the box.
It’s quickly transitioned up to Bellingham who pokes it up to Vinicius as Arsenal scramble to get back into formation.
Vinicius shoots but curls his effort into the arms of David Raya.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:19 , Mike Jones54 mins: Bellingham wins a free kick after Rice gets back to deflect the ball behind.
Mbappe is the target and receives the ball before lifting it over the top of goal.
Real Madrid are growing frustrated.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:16 , Mike Jones51 mins: Real Madrid have progressed from 12 of their last 14 Champions League quarter-finals but are struggling to get anything going here.
Thomas Partey is fouled by Jude Bellingham and Arsenal can slow play down again.
Declan Rice is standing over it but this is too far from goal.
Still, he puts it into the penalty area where Mikel Merino wins the header and nods it over the top.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:13 , Mike Jones48 mins: Vazquez whips a cross into the box from the right wing and Aurelien Tchouameni leaps high to reach it.
The ball sails over his head and Arsenal manage to deal with it without too much trouble.
Second half! Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:10 , Mike JonesThe hosts get the match going again for the second half.
They are 45 minutes away from being eliminated from the Champions League.
Can Arsenal get themselves over the line? No changes from either manager at the break.
HT Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:06 , Mike JonesIn the other semi-final of the evening Inter Milan and Bayern Munich are locked in a goalless stalemate at half-time.
That means Inter still lead 2-1 on aggregate and are joining PSG and Barcelona in the semi-finals as things stand.
HT Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 21:02 , Mike JonesReal Madrid dominated possession in the first half and had near 68% of the ball.
They manages six shots but none of them were on target and David Raya hasn’t made a save.
In contrast, Arsenal have had four shots with three of them on target and Thibaut Courtois coming to the rescue all three times.
HT Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:58 , Mike Jones
Half-time! Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:54 , Mike Jones45+7 mins: The whistle goes to end a fascinating first half in which Arsenal have had the most joy.
Bukayo Saka’s penalty miss has been their only blip but they’ll be very pleased with how things are progressing so far.
All to play for in the second half of course.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:53 , Mike Jones45+5 mins: Save!
A quick move from Arsenal sees them get the ball to Odegaard who slips it across to Rice.
Rice plays the ball into the feet of Martinelli who shoots from a tight angle and forces a save out of Courtois at the near post.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:50 , Mike Jones45+3 mins: There are seven minutes of added time to play in the first half.
If Arsenal can get into the break without conceding that will be a huge achievement and move them one step closer to the semi-finals.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:47 , Mike Jones45 mins: Arsenal have been under a bit of pressure at the back but Lewis-Skelly’s clearance is sent up towards Saka.
He gets to the ball first who is then bungled to the ground by Lucas Vazquez.
The free kick relieves a bit of the pressure on the Gunners.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:44 , Mike Jones42 mins: A Real Madrid corner is swung into the penalty area but David Raya pushes his way through the crowd to punch the ball out of play.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:42 , Mike Jones39 mins: Real Madrid’s intensity has been drained slightly as the stop-start nature of the match is playing into Arsenal’s favour.
The Gunners are trying to slow the tempo, control possession and limit the pace at which Real can attack them.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:38 , Mike Jones36 mins: Martin Odegaard floats a free kick into the box after Antonio Rudiger takes out Mikel Merino.
The ball drops to Jurrien Timber who spins and shoots with his first touch but only manages to lift the ball over the top of the crossbar.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:36 , Mike Jones33 mins: Mbappe takes a shot from a long way out and fizzes it wide of the far post. David Raya seemingly had it covered.
Arsenal need to remain switched on as there’ll be plenty of time added on to this half now too.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:32 , Mike Jones30 mins: Declan Rice has had a reprieve as well. That booking, which has now bee rescinded, would have meant he missed the first leg of the semi-final if Arsenal get there.
The Real Madrid fans boo the referee’s decision but it was the right one.
Kylian Mbappe was trying to buy the penalty from the official.
It took way too long to come to the decision though, it was five minutes to decide.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:30 , Mike Jones27 mins: No penalty!
This VAR check is taking a long, long time.
It’s almost been four minutes and there may be an offside in the build up. The referee has been sent to the pitchside screen again.
He watches the replays and decides that the penalty shouldn’t be given!
Penalty to Real Madrid!
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:27 , Mike JonesReal Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
23 mins: Oh hello!
A free kick is whipped into the Arsenal penalty area and comes towards Kylian Mbappe.
Declan Rice has his arms on the forward who easily goes to ground.
The referee points to the spot and puts Rice in the book with a yellow card as well.
VAR is checking this one too but the feeling is that this will stand, soft as it may be.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:24 , Mike Jones21 mins: A top quality flick from Rodrygo gets the ball into the box and the feet of Mbappe.
He checks to the right but is marshalled off the ball by William Saliba who guards it and lets it run out for a goal kick.
Arsenal are going to have to do a lot of defending tonight.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:21 , Mike Jones18 mins: Real Madrid have never scored a goal against Arsenal and they have never beaten them in three matches.
Saka’s penalty was so poor. It was straight at the goalkeeper and an easy save for a goalkeeper like Courtois.
The goal would have settled Arsenal down massively but as things stand there’s still an aura of nerves around the stadium.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:18 , Mike Jones15 mins: Though the scoreline remains the same as the start of the match that missed penalty will inspire Real Madrid and build more belief.
Arsenal can’t lose focus. They are still miles ahead in this tie and will need Saka to remain confident.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:16 , Mike Jones13 mins: Saved!
Martin Odegaard places the ball on the spot before leaving it to Bukayo Saka.
Saka decides to hit a soft panenka and knocks it down the middle.
Thibaut Courtois leaps to his right and slaps the ball away.
Massive save!
Penalty to Arsenal!
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:14 , Mike JonesReal Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
11 mins: Wow!
Raul Asencio is punished for dragging Mikel Merino to ground from a corner kick which Declan Rice whipped into the hands of Courtois.
The set piece was quite a while ago but VAR called the referee over to the monitor and he points to the spot.
Huge moment coming up for Arsenal.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:13 , Mike Jones10 mins: There’s a frenetic and energised style to Real Madrid’s play because they know they need to score goals.
The longer this game goes without the hosts scoring the better it will be for Arsenal but they need to stay switched on until the final whistle.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:11 , Mike Jones8 mins: Rodrygo finds a yard of space on the right side of the final third and whips in a cross that is dealt with by Jakub Kiwior.
Save!
The Gunners break quickly on the counter with Martinelli driving forward. They switch the play out to Saka on the right.
He dances inside of Alaba and then drills a low effort at goal only for Thibaut Courtois to lunge to the right and palm the ball away.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:09 , Mike Jones6 mins: Crunch!
That’s a sore one for Bukayo Saka who is taken out by a sliding David Alaba who wants to show a bit of physicality early on.
Alaba is booked and later Jude Bellingham throws Myles Lewis-Skelly to the ground and offers up a free kick.
Arsenal send the ball over to Saka on the right side of the box and a snapshot from the winger just sails across the face of goal.
That was a close one.
Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:06 , Mike Jones3 mins: Goal!
Vinicius Junior is fed the ball on the left side of the pitch and drives up to the penalty area.
He cuts inside and flicks a right footed pass to the far post where Kylian Mbappe waits.
He chests the ball into the back of the net as David Raya leaps across but doesn’t celebrate.
Instead he glances to the assistant referee who has his flag raised for offside. Let off for Arsenal.
Kick off! Real Madrid 0-0 Arsenal (0-3 agg)
Wednesday 16 April 2025 20:04 , Mike JonesArsenal get the ball rolling at the Santiago Bernabeau and work it to David Raya who boots it forward.
Gabriel Martinelli attempts to get down the left wing but is tackled heavily early on and the ball rolls out of play.
Real Madrid vs Arsenal
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:55 , Mike JonesReal Madrid know the importance of winning tonight’s match and what it could mean for their season.
They head out onto the pitch three goals behind Arsenal whose job is to keep them at bay at a loud and ferocious Bernabeau.
Martin Odegaard has the armband for the Gunners and looks focused as the players make their way out onto the pitch.
This is the big one and Arsenal are on the brink of knocking our Real Madrid and joining the big time.
Can they get over the line? Let’s find out.
Kick off is up next...
A impressive start for Lewis-Skelly
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:50 , Mike JonesIn the first leg of this tie, Myles Lewis-Skelly became just the third English teenager to assist a goal in a Champions League knockout stage match.
All three of those have done so while playing for Arsenal: Theo Walcott in 2008 (vs Milan and Liverpool), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in 2012 (vs Milan) and Myles Lewis-Skelly in 2025 (vs Real Madrid).
Madrid's biggest threat?
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:45 , Mike JonesCurrently on 28 goals and 21 assists, Vinícius Junior could become the fourth different Real Madrid player to reach 50 goal involvements in the Champions League after Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Raul.
Mbappe in form
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:40 , Mike JonesReal Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe has been directly involved in eight goals in eight knockout stage games against English sides in the Champions League (seven goals, one assist).
He’s also scored four goals and got one assist in his last four home outings.
High press success
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:35 , Mike JonesDespite averaging more possession (53.4%), Arsenal made 115 high-intensity pressures in the final third in the first leg of this tie.
This was more than three times as many as Real Madrid, whose total of 36 was the lowest of any side across this season’s quarter-final first legs.
The history of comebacks that mean Arsenal cannot switch off against Real Madrid
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:30 , Miguel DelaneyIn the hours immediately after Real Madrid’s 3-0 defeat to Arsenal, their chastened players insisted on making a point.
They started posting on social media about how it’s not over, which may seem the sort of banality that modern stars do, but was actually part of something more concerted.
Why Arsenal cannot switch off for a second against Real Madrid
Strong offence, strong defence
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:25 , Mike JonesArsenal have scored an average of 2.55 goals and conceded 0.55 per game in the Champions League this season (28 scored, six conceded overall).
Both of these stats are their second-best averages in a single European Cup/Champions League campaign, after the 2.63 scored in 2010-11 and 0.31 conceded in 2005-06.
Four in a row for Arsenal?
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:20 , Mike JonesArsenal could equal their longest winning run away from home in the European Cup/Champions League (4).
The only previous time they won four in a row, the fourth game of that run was a victory against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu (1-0 in February 2006, last 16 first leg).
Fortress Bernabeau
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:15 , Mike JonesSince the start of the 2015-16 season, this will be the 16th time that Real Madrid have played the second leg of a Champions League knockout stage tie at home.
Of the previous 15, they’ve only been eliminated on one occasion (vs Ajax in the last 16 in 2018-19), and progressed from the last eight in a row.
How many goals will Real Madrid score?
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:10 , Mike JonesAcross the 53 games that Real Madrid have played against English sides in the European Cup/Champions League, they’ve managed to win by more than three goals on just two previous occasions: 5-1 v Derby County in 1975-76 (last 16) and 4-0 v Tottenham Hotspur in 2010-11 (quarter-final).
Three goal deficit a big task to overturn
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:05 , Mike JonesReal Madrid’s defeat at the Emirates Stadium was the fifth time they have lost the first leg of a knockout stage tie in the European Cup/Champions League by 3+ goals.
They’ve been eliminated in the second leg in three of the previous four occasions (the exception being against Derby County in the last 16 in 1975-76, winning 6-5 on aggregate after a 1-4 defeat in the first leg).
How Arsenal are being gaslit ahead of crunch Real Madrid clash
Wednesday 16 April 2025 19:00 , Miguel DelaneyAs David Raya walked out of the cavernous Bernabeu media room, having said Arsenal are “super-convinced” they can win – and then repeating it – Mikel Arteta gave him a knowing nod. The right message had been sent. Something was needed to counter “the narrative”, as the Gunners boss put it.
The main difficulty in Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final might not even be facing Real Madrid, given what Arsenal did to them in the first leg, but the noise that Real Madrid make.
How Arsenal are being gaslit ahead of crunch Real Madrid clash
Arsenal unbeaten against Real Madrid
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:55 , Mike JonesArsenal remain unbeaten against Real Madrid in European competition (two wins, one draw), and haven’t conceded a single goal across their three meetings.
The Gunners could become the first side ever to keep four consecutive clean sheets against Los Blancos in the European Cup or Champions League.
Arsenal team to face Real Madrid
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:47 , Mike JonesArsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Merino, Martinelli
⚫️ 𝗧𝗘𝗔𝗠𝙉𝙀𝙒𝙎 🔴
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 16, 2025
🧱 Kiwior partners Saliba
⚡️Saka on the wing
🪄 Merino up top
Let's give it everything we've got, Gunners ✊
'The Bernabeau has magic'
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:40 , Mike JonesAncelotti added: "The Bernabéu has magic, and everyone knows it's a special atmosphere.
“We need a bit of everything: quality and a complete performance, both physically and collectively. Not one of these things can go wrong.
“The motivation is there, and now I want the players to be calm before the game. I'm clear that we're going to give it our all."
'We have the quality to turn this around'
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:35 , Mike JonesCarlo Ancelotti spoke about the prospect of Real Madrid overturning their three goal deficit in tonight’s Champions League quarter-final.
The Real Madrid coach said: "We have the quality to turn this tie around, along with the commitment, the experience and the fans.
“The resources are there, and now it's time to bring our best. Mentally we're doing very well, and we have to have good control of the game."
Facing almost certain defeat, Real Madrid can prove again why they are the scourge of English clubs
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:30 , Richard JollyIt is Real Madrid against the Premier League. It often is. When Arsenal line up in the Bernabeu, it will be Real’s 22nd game against English opposition since the start of April 2021. If, for Arsenal, it would be a landmark result to eliminate Real, it has been a milestone of sorts simply to face them. For Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool, Real have provided a regular date on the fixture list; perhaps no more for Chelsea, however. They could complete a clean sweep of European trophies this season but Real may never enter the Conference League.
Look at the list of recent Champions League winners and it has been Real or the Premier League. Chelsea in 2021 and City in 2023, Real in 2022 and 2024. An era of sorts may end this year, unless Arsenal maintain the Premier League’s biannual habit of conquering Europe or Real first stage a great comeback and then embark on the familiar pursuit of glory. Three of the four semi-finalists will be neither Real nor English.
Real Madrid can prove again why they are the scourge of English clubs
Arsenal aren't nervous says Raya
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:25 , Mike JonesArsenal goalkeeper David Raya explained what the feeling is like inside the dressing room ahead of tonight’s big clash.
He said: "The mood is great, without nerves. We've come here to win. We know how big a club Real Madrid is so it would be good to knock them out.
“We can't control outside factors and the noise, we just have to believe in ourselves, and that's the most important thing."
'We are confident'
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:20 , Mike JonesArsenal’s No.1 goalkeeper, David Raya, spoke about how his teammates are ready for the challenge of beating Real Madrid again tonight.
He said: "We are confident in being able to replicate what we did in the first game, and we're here to write our own history.
“We face a lot of good players in the Premier League, and we're ready for this challenge.
“Everyone is always on their toes, no matter who we play."
Robert Pires: ‘Arsenal’s Champions League final defeat still hurts – it’s a wound that’ll never heal’
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:15 , Mike JonesDeclan Rice’s brilliance last week at the Emirates Stadium has allowed Arsenal to dream big. With Real Madrid on the ropes, Mikel Arteta’s team have one foot in the Champions League semi-finals. While caution is urged in the dressing room, it’s impossible to contain the euphoria outside.
Fans, pundits, and club legends are confident they can finish the job. “If Arsenal manage to beat Real Madrid, anything can happen,” Robert Pires, an “Invincible” during his time in north London, says in an exclusive interview with TheIndependent.
Robert Pires: ‘Barcelona loss still hurts – it’s a wound that’ll never heal’
What can Real do differently?
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:10 , Mike JonesBellingham also explained what Real Madrid need to know in order to get themselves back in this tie.
He said: "We need to show much more than we did in the first leg.
“We need greater commitment and a better understanding of what the game demands, along with more clarity in transitions; so it's not just one aspect.
“We know we can play much better. It's one thing to lose, but another not to learn. We have to believe in the team and in our capabilities."
Real Madrid line-up to face Arsenal
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:08 , Mike JonesReal Madrid XI: Courtois; Lucas Vazquez, Ascensio, Rudiger, Alaba; Valverde, Tchouameni, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Mbappe, Vinicius Jr
📋✅ Our starting XI!
— Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) April 16, 2025
🆚 @Arsenal pic.twitter.com/TD5jcRhpvQ
'It's a night made for Real Madrid'
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:05 , Mike JonesJude Bellingham on what the most repeated word in the Real Madrid dressing room has been this week:
"Comeback.
“I've heard it a million times, watched many videos... it motivates us a lot. It's a night made for Real Madrid. It's something that people are familiar with, and there's no need to add anything else.
“We want to add to the club's history, and [tonight] is a big day for us."
Jude Bellingham eyes historic Real Madrid comeback against Arsenal
Wednesday 16 April 2025 18:00 , Mike JonesJude Bellingham is confident Real Madrid can overturn a 3-0 first-leg Champions League deficit against Arsenal on Wednesday to book their place in the last four.
Real were left stunned by the Gunners at the Emirates Stadium last week after Declan Rice scored two outstanding free-kicks to leave Carlo Ancelotti’s side with a mountainous task.
Jude Bellingham eyes historic Real Madrid comeback against Arsenal
Real Madrid’s Luka Modric buys minority stake in Swansea City
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:55 , Flo CliffordReal Madrid midfielder Luka Modric appears to be planning for his retirement from football by purchasing a minority stake in Swansea City.
The 39-year-old, whose contract with Real Madrid expires at the end of this season, has taken a non-controlling stake in the Championship side.
Modric has joined shareholders Andy Coleman, Brett Cravatt, Nigel Morris and businessman Jason Cohen, after the four bought out former majority owners Jason Levien and Steve Kaplan last November.
Modric said: “This is an exciting opportunity. Swansea has a strong identity, an incredible fanbase, and the ambition to compete at the highest level.”
Can Real Madrid score four goals against Arsenal?
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:50 , Mike JonesArsenal have not conceded three times in a match since a 4-3 win against Luton 16 months ago, and they have not lost by a four-goal margin since they suffered a 4-0 defeat against Liverpool at Anfield in December 2021.
Speaking about beating Madrid, Arteta said: “We have to do it again. And we have to prove it now in this context. And that’s the beauty of it. That’s the challenge and that’s the great thing about sport.
“We’ve shown that we are capable of doing it, and that has to give us reassurance and confidence that we can do it. But now, let’s talk on the pitch, do it on the pitch, and that’s the only thing that matters.”
Arteta on Madrid's belief in a comeback
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:45 , Mike Jones"It's part of their history and they've earned the right to talk about these scenarios,” said Arteta when asked about Real Madrid’s focus on still making it through to the semi-finals.
“Our mindset is different in how we have the best chance to be better than them. I think it is exciting. We have never won this competition, and we are trying to do something now where we can dominate."
'The emotional aspect is significant'
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:40 , Mike JonesArteta expanding on his mindset for tonight’s match and explained: "The emotional aspect is very significant.
“I have a lot of reassurance from what the team has done all season, in positive contexts and in difficult contexts.
“We are going to enjoy playing any kind of game. The mindset is to be brave, to be dominant and have the conviction that we can be better than them and win the game."
Arsenal's mindset is to win
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:35 , Mike JonesMikel Arteta says that Arsenal won’t sit back and hold on to their lead when they head to Madrid tonight.
Most of the pre-match build-up has been about Real Madrid overturning their deficit and winning the game but Arteta says the Gunners have a similar mindset.
He said: “We have the same mindset.
“The mindset is to win, to be brave, to be bold, dominant, to be determined and to have the conviction that we can be better than them and win the game.
“That is the message I have conveyed to the players. They did that in London and now we have to do it in a different context tomorrow.”
Mikel Arteta reveals Arsenal’s mindset ahead of Real Madrid second leg
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:30 , Mike JonesMikel Arteta insists a ‘bold and brave’ Arsenal do not fear Real Madrid and wants his side to secure their place in the Champions League semi-finals by beating the Spanish giants in their own back yard.
Arsenal will take on Carlo Ancelotti’s team in the second leg of their quarter-final at the Bernabeu with a three-goal advantage following Declan Rice’s remarkable free-kick double at the Emirates Stadium last week.
However, the 15-time European Cup winners have a habit of impressive turnarounds – against the might of Manchester City, Chelsea, Paris St Germain and Bayern Munich – all in recent seasons.
Mikel Arteta reveals Arsenal’s mindset ahead of Real Madrid second leg
Real Madrid vs Arsenal prediction
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:25 , Mike JonesReal Madrid won’t go down easily and the atmosphere inside the Bernabeau will inspire them to fight ferociously to overcome the three goal deficit. It’ll be a nervous outing for Arsenal but a goal should settle them down and they will have enough defensive quality to sneak into the semi-finals.
Real Madrid 3-1 Arsenal (Arsenal to progress 4-3 on aggregate).
Arsenal's early team news
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:20 , Mike JonesArsenal’s Jorginho will be unavailable after the midfielder limped off during the Premier League draw with Brentford though Thomas Partey and Ben White should be available for Mikel Arteta.
Raheem Sterling missed the first leg through suspension but is back for this one.
Predicted Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Merino, Martinelli
Real Madrid team news
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:15 , Mike JonesEduardo Camavinga is suspended after being dismissed in the final few minutes of the first leg last week. Aurelien Tchouameni, who missed the first leg for his own suspension, looks set to return to the starting XI for Real Madrid.
Dani Ceballos is available to face his former club but Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal will be on the sidelines.
Predicted Real Madrid XI: Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Rudiger, Alaba; Modric, Tchouameni; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr; Mbappe
How can I watch it?
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:10 , Mike JonesIn the UK, the game will be televised on TNT Sports 1 with coverage beginning at 7pm. TNT Sports subscribers can also watch the contest live online via the Discovery+ app and website.
When is Real Madrid vs Arsenal?
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:05 , Mike JonesThe Champions League quarter-final second leg will kick off at 8pm BST on Wednesday 16 April at Santiago Bernabeau in Madrid.
Real Madrid vs Arsenal
Wednesday 16 April 2025 17:00 , Mike JonesReal Madrid host Arsenal in a Champions League quarter-final second leg hoping to pull off one of the great comebacks and book a place in the next round when the teams clash at the Santiago Bernabeau.
The Spanish giants trail the Gunners by three goals after two exceptional free kicks from Declan Rice and a late third from Mikel Merino gave Arsenal a superb victory at the Emirates Stadium a week ago.
Mikel Arteta’s side second in the Premier League but are 13 points behind leaders Liverpool meaning their hopes of winning silverware this season are best founded in this competition.
Madrid have history of surprising teams, especially English clubs, with comeback wins but they have never beaten the Gunners in competitive competition.
Good evening!
Wednesday 16 April 2025 15:07 , Mike JonesWelcome to The Independent’s coverage of tonight’s Champions League action as Real Madrid host Arsenal in a crucial second leg fixture.
The two teams go toe-to-toe in the quarter-finals with Arsenal holding a 3-0 advantage after dominating proceedings at the Emirates last week.
Madrid have a history of spectacular comebacks and will need to be on their best form tonight if they hope to get through to the next stage of the competition while Arsenal must avoid defeat to ensure they easily make it through.
We’ll have all the team news, line-ups and latest updates throughout the night so stick with us as we build up to kick off at 8pm.
