Arsenal has achieved two wins on the bounce against Real Madrid, advancing to the Champions League semi-finals after a 2-1 victory at Santiago Bernabeu. Key to this success was an impressive defensive display that left the 15-time European champions struggling to create chances.
Adrian Clarke’s analysis highlights the importance of restricting Real Madrid’s shot count, which fell to just 12 attempts despite creating little note. The hosts’ inability to carve open the Arsenal defense led to a reliance on hopeful crosses, with the Spaniards delivering an unprecedented 33 crosses in open play – the third-highest figure recorded since 2003/04.
Arsenal’s defensive solidity was spearheaded by William Saliba and Jakub Kiwior, who both excelled in their respective roles. Saliba made an incredible 12 clearances, while Kiwior won five of his six duels on the night. The Frenchman’s partner also displayed immense defensive work, drawing comparisons to Per Mertesacker’s performance against Bayern Munich in 2014.
Stand-in striker Mikel Merino was instrumental in the victory, providing two assists and a timely strike. His ability to hold up the ball well for supporting runners, as well as his defensive set plays, stood out. Merino’s composure in big moments was exceptional, particularly in delivering crucial passes that sent Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli clear on the counter-attack.
The team’s maturity shone through in central midfield, where Thomas Partey and Declan Rice both remained calm under intense pressure. Partey completed every single pass, while Rice boasted a 96.2% accuracy rate. The duo’s sensible game management was key to Arsenal’s success, as they never rushed or allowed the La Liga giants to dictate the tempo.
Bukayo Saka also produced an impressive performance, scoring the opener and displaying defensive shifts that earned him a noteworthy match chalkboard. The winger’s mental toughness was on full display after missing a first-half penalty, which he later redeemed with a sumptuous finish.
Declan Rice’s influence on the game cannot be overstated, as he served up a commanding performance in midfield. His box-to-box brilliance and defensive work made him the best player on the pitch by some distance. Rice’s quality against Real Madrid has catapulted his status to new heights, cementing his place among the world’s elite.
Arsenal’s victory over Real Madrid is a testament to the team’s growing maturity and cohesion. With disciplined defense, Merino magic, and impressive performances from Saka and Rice, the Gunners are well-positioned to make a deep run in the Champions League.
Source: https://www.arsenal.com/news/arsenal-analysed-how-we-knocked-out-madrid