Positives & negatives from Arsenal's outstanding win over Real Madrid

Arsenal sealed a brilliant 2-1 win over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday night to progress to the semi-finals of the Champions League with a 5-1 aggregate victory.

First half penalty drama kept the game level as Bukayo Saka missed from the spot before VAR denied Madrid the chance to get themselves back in the game. The Gunners' star winger redeemed himself however, beating Thibaut Courtois with a dinked finish midway through the second 45. Vinicius Jr hit back for the hosts almost instantly, pouncing on a mistake by William Saliba, but Gabriel Martinelli went and sealed the victory with a fine run and finish in stoppage time.

As Arsenal reached the final four of Europe's elite competition for just the third time in their history, there were several positives and negatives to take away.

Positive #1: Survived opening minutes

One of Arsenal's main priorities heading into this game was to avoid conceding in the opening minutes, and they did so brilliantly.

An early goal for Madrid would have given them serious hope of completing the 'remontada' they banged on about in the build-up. The Gunners made sure to thwart those hopes with a great approach.

Mikel Arteta's side ensured they avoided being pinned back in their own half by aiming to win back possession high up the pitch. They also played with courage and bravery when playing out from the back, too. When Madrid did get the chance to cause problems, Arsenal's formidable backline did an outstanding job of seeing out the pressure, eventually eradicating chances of a comeback as the clock ticked on.

Negative #1: Poor decision by Saka

Arsenal's good defending in the opening minutes was overshadowed by a dreadful penalty decision from Bukayo Saka.

A VAR check deemed Mikel Merino to have been fouled in the box by Raul Asencio, presenting the Gunners' star winger with a chance to put his side in the clear. He didn't oblige, however, attempting a woeful Panenka penalty that was saved by Thibaut Courtois.

Saka enjoyed a remontada of his own, though, as he scored the opening goal in Arsenal's superb victory. In another world, however, his penalty miss could've the catalyst for a Madrid turnaround.

The humble England international may have let his ego get the better of him under the bright lights.

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