Arteta: "I wanted to slap Saka!"

The English club Arsenal qualified for the semi-finals of the 2024-2025 Champions League after dominating Real Madrid in the first leg (3-0) and then in the return leg (2-1).

During the return match, played under the new format of the competition, the Gunners' goals were scored by Bukayo Saka in the 65th minute and Gabriel Martinelli in the 93rd. Vinícius Júnior, meanwhile, scored Madrid's only goal in the 67th minute.

The first half was notably marked by a missed penalty by Arsenal. Bukayo Saka attempted a Panenka, but the Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made a decisive save, confirming his excellent return to the goal.

Arteta: "I wanted to slap Saka after that penalty!"

Interviewed after the match, Mikel Arteta, the Gunners' coach, reflected on this action:
"I wanted to slap him after the decision he made. But he chose what he thought was best, and that's something you have to respect. I was just afraid it would have a psychological impact on the team at that moment in the match."

Speaking to TNT Sports, Bukayo Saka also commented on his missed attempt:
"It can happen. I tried to shoot, but it didn't work. I was confident about scoring tonight. I learn from every moment. Tonight, I just want to enjoy the victory, then I'll take the time to review that action."

Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-final of this prestigious competition. The first leg will take place at the Emirates Stadium, while the return leg will be played at the Parc des Princes.

Read also: AI predicts a Madrid demonstration - but Arsenal's dream continues!

Mohamed Rek |

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Mohamed Rek- sports content writer with over 10 years of experience creating football content in Arabic and French for platforms such as Foot Africa and Starafrica, combining accuracy, creativity, and audience engagement.