Arsenal Stun Real Madrid, Inter Edge Bayern in Dramatic Champions League Quarterfinals

April 16, 2025 — European football witnessed a night of high drama as Arsenal ended Real Madrid’s Champions League reign at the Santiago Bernabéu, while Inter Milan survived a Bayern Munich fightback to book their place in the semifinals.

Arsenal Oust Holders Real Madrid

Arsenal delivered a statement performance, defeating Real Madrid 2-1 in Madrid to complete a commanding 5-1 aggregate victory and reach their first Champions League semifinal since 2009. The Gunners, who held a 3-0 advantage from the first leg, showed composure and tactical discipline to snuff out any hopes of a famous Madrid comeback.

Bukayo Saka, having missed an earlier penalty, opened the scoring in the 65th minute with a composed finish after a slick team move. Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior briefly reignited the home crowd with a quick reply two minutes later, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to make it 1-1 on the night. However, Arsenal remained in control, and Gabriel Martinelli sealed the win in stoppage time with a clinical counterattack goal.

Declan Rice was named Player of the Match for his leadership and control in midfield, orchestrating play and helping to keep Madrid at bay. The result marks a significant milestone for Mikel Arteta’s side, who now look ahead to a semifinal clash as genuine contenders for the European crown.

Inter Survive Bayern’s Late Surge

In Milan, Inter and Bayern Munich played out a thrilling 2-2 draw, with Inter progressing 4-3 on aggregate after their first-leg win in Germany. Bayern struck first through Harry Kane in the 52nd minute, but Inter responded with goals from Lautaro Martínez and Benjamin Pavard to turn the match in their favor. Eric Dier’s late goal for Bayern set up a tense finale, but Inter held firm to secure their place in the last four.

Semifinal Lineup Takes Shape

With these results, Arsenal and Inter join Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League semifinals. Arsenal’s emphatic dismissal of Real Madrid and Inter’s resilience against Bayern set the stage for a compelling conclusion to this year’s tournament.

Arsenal’s triumph in Madrid and Inter’s aggregate victory ensure both clubs remain in the hunt for European glory as the Champions League heads into its decisive stages.

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