Arsenal FC secured a dramatic 2-1 victory against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu in a UEFA Champions League clash, overcoming a missed penalty and leaning on heroics from Thomas Partey and Declan Rice to clinch the win.
The defeat proved catastrophic for Real Madrid, with manager Carlo Ancelotti sacked hours after the final whistle, marking a stunning exit from the competition.
The Gunners started brightly but squandered a golden opportunity when Thibaut Courtois saved Bukayo Saka’s penalty in the 20th minute.
Undeterred, Arsenal rallied, with Partey restoring momentum with a thunderous long-range strike in the 35th minute.
Real Madrid equalised through Rodrygo in the 60th minute, but Rice proved the difference-maker, heading in a pinpoint Martin Ødegaard corner in the 82nd minute to secure the victory.
Arteta hailed his midfield duo, stating, “Thomas and Declan showed incredible character to turn this game around. This win is a testament to our spirit.”
The result propelled Arsenal to the top of their Champions League group, while Real Madrid’s campaign unravelled.
Under mounting pressure, Ancelotti was dismissed by club president Florentino Pérez, with the decision announced shortly after the match.
“We needed a change to reset our ambitions,” Pérez said in a brief statement.
Arsenal fans erupted in celebration, while Madrid’s supporters voiced frustration. The Gunners now turn their focus to the next round, with renewed confidence in their European quest.
