Real Madrid’s Champions League run came to a disappointing end at the Santiago Bernabéu, where they were unable to overturn a 3–0 first-leg deficit against Arsenal.
Despite hopes of a dramatic comeback, Los Blancos fell short. Arsenal secured a 2–1 victory on the night, with goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, and advanced 5–1 on aggregate. Vinicius Jr. scored Madrid’s only goal, but it wasn’t enough.
After the final whistle, a moment of sportsmanship stood out. Saka approached Vinicius to shake hands, and just as the two were parting, Vinicius asked to swap shirts. Saka agreed, and the two wingers exchanged jerseys—showcasing the mutual respect between them.
Saka had a mixed performance: he started strong, drawing a yellow card from David Alaba, but missed a Panenka-style penalty. He redeemed himself in the second half with a stunning goal. Vinicius responded with a strike of his own, but Martinelli’s late goal sealed Arsenal’s triumph.
Both Saka and Vinicius are stars for club and country, and their respectful exchange post-match highlighted their class—even in defeat.
Interestingly, back in 2019 when Unai Emery was Arsenal manager, the club tried to sign Vinicius Jr, but Real Madrid refused to let him go—a decision that’s clearly paid off.
