Arsenal Ends Real Madrid's Run, Reaches Champions League Semis

Madrid: Arsenal defeated defending champion Real Madrid 2-1 on Wednesday to reach the Champions League semifinals for the first time since 2009, advancing 5-1 on aggregate. VAR played a pivotal role in two penalty decisions, helping Arsenal secure a clash with Paris Saint-Germain in the next round. Inter Milan also moved forward, setting up a semifinal against Barcelona.
Madrid’s hopes of a famous comeback faded early as a five-minute VAR review overturned a penalty for a hold on Kylian Mbappé. Earlier, Arsenal was awarded a spot kick via VAR, but Bukayo Saka missed. Saka later redeemed himself by scoring in the 65th minute, and although Vinícius Júnior quickly equalized, Gabriel Martinelli sealed Arsenal’s win in stoppage time.“This is one of the best nights in my football career, for sure," said Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta. "To win this tie in the manner that we have, we can be very proud.”
Mbappé was replaced in the 75th minute with an apparent injury and jeered by some in the crowd. It was another underwhelming Champions League night for the French forward, who is still seeking his first title in the competition. Arsenal’s dominance continued a strong record against Madrid, having never lost in their four meetings. The English club last eliminated Madrid in the 2005-06 knockout stage, when it went on to lose the final to Barcelona.
Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged the setback, saying, “We have to hold our heads high… In sport, this can happen because there are no invincible teams.” He also hinted that his future at the club could be uncertain, depending on the club’s decision. The match began energetically, with Mbappé scoring early only for the goal to be ruled offside. Arsenal had a penalty chance in the 12th minute when VAR spotted a foul on Mikel Merino, but Saka’s chipped attempt was saved by Courtois.

Lautaro Martinez's celebration after his goal Credit X: Inter Milan

Inter Milan Eliminates Bayern Munich to Reach Champions League Semifinals

Inter Milan advanced to the Champions League semifinals after a 2-2 draw with Bayern Munich on Wednesday, securing a 4-3 aggregate win. Benjamin Pavard, a former Bayern player, scored his first goal for Inter, while Lautaro Martínez also netted. Despite Bayern’s equalizer from Eric Dier, Inter held on to reach the final four. They will face Barcelona, a repeat of their 2010 semifinal clash. Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain will meet Arsenal in the other semifinal. Arsenal defeated Real Madrid 5-1 on aggregate to book their spot.