Real Madrid’s troubled season took another hit on Wednesday night as they were officially knocked out of the UEFA Champions League by Arsenal. The English side proved to be the superior team across both legs of their quarter-final clash, winning convincingly with an overall scoreline of 5-1.
Their dominance continued at the Santiago Bernabéu, where they secured a 2-1 victory to seal their progression to the semi-finals.
After suffering a heavy defeat in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, Real Madrid had hoped to spark a comeback in front of their home supporters. However, that hope was short-lived.
Arsenal came into the second leg with confidence and control, managing the game effectively and never allowing Madrid to build momentum.
Despite the electric atmosphere and passionate fans at the Bernabéu, the Spanish giants were unable to match Arsenal’s intensity or tactical discipline. From the first whistle to the last, Arsenal looked the more organized and dangerous side.
Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid’s goalkeeper, spoke after the match to express his frustration and shared his thoughts on where things went wrong. In his comments, reported by Sport, Courtois believed that the game could have shifted dramatically if Real Madrid had managed to score the opening goal.
One of the turning points he referred to was the penalty awarded to Arsenal early on. Although he attempted to save it, had he succeeded, he felt the atmosphere and energy could have turned in Madrid’s favor.
“The fans were incredible and fully behind us,” Courtois said. “If we had scored first, it would have changed the entire rhythm of the game.
That would have opened up the tie, making it more difficult for them. We got one goal, but it wasn’t enough. Arsenal deserved the win.”
Courtois also noted that the team sorely missed striker Joselu Mato, who had been vital for Madrid in the previous season’s Champions League matches. With Real Madrid resorting to frequent crosses into the box, the absence of a strong aerial presence like Joselu was noticeable.
Courtois mentioned that Joselu’s ability to win headers and convert from wide deliveries could have made a real difference against a well-organized Arsenal defense.
“They pressed high and defended very well,” Courtois added. “There weren’t many spaces, and we kept delivering crosses, but no one was there to dominate in the air like Joselu could.”
Despite the disappointment, Courtois urged his teammates to stay focused. He reminded everyone that the season is not over, with major competitions like La Liga, the Copa del Rey final, and the FIFA Club World Cup still on the line.
He ended by thanking the fans for their continued support and belief, promising that the team would keep fighting to bring joy back to the supporters.
