Bukayo Saka says Arsenal’s win over Real Madrid proves they can compete with the best teams in the world.
Mikel Arteta’s side secured their place in the Champions League semi-finals last night after completing a 5-1 aggregate victory over Madrid.
The Gunners travelled to Spain with a 3-0 lead from the first leg and never looked in danger of blowing their advantage.
Madrid were hopeful of a comeback, with Jude Bellingham revealing that ‘remontada’ was in the players’ minds before the game. The comeback never materialised.
Arsenal were awarded a penalty in the first half, but Bukayo Saka’s ‘Panenka’ penalty was saved by Thibaut Courtois.
When asked about the miss, Saka said: “It can happen. I tried something, but it didn’t work. I was confident I was going to score tonight.
“I learn in every moment. Tonight, I am more focused on enjoying the win, and then I will review it properly.”
Arsenal set for semi-final clash with PSG
Saka believes that beating Madrid shows how far the team has progressed.
Arsenal are bidding to reach the Champions League final for the first time since 2006, and Saka believes they can achieve the feat.
“We showed that we can play in Europe and beat one of the best teams in the world, home and away,” he said. “(I’m) very proud of this team.
“Tonight was a big statement, and I am so happy for everyone. We felt comfortable. We are quite good when we get into a low block. It took a lot of running, but we managed to do it.”
Arsenal will now face Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals – a team they defeated in the group stage.
PSG reached the last four after defeating Aston Villa, and Saka is expecting a tougher match this time around.
“Much different,” he said when asked how different it would be coming up against them now.
“I see them playing with much more confidence. We will be ready, and it will be a very good match.”
