Will Arsenal cause another European shock?

Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Real Madrid was one of their most complete performances under Mikel Arteta. It was also one of the most convincing European results by an English club against the tournament’s most decorated side. But the job is not finished.

They go to the Santiago Bernabeu knowing the tie is far from over, no matter how comfortable the scoreline looks. Real Madrid live for these nights. The history books prove it.

Thomas Partey knows what to expect. “It’s going to be one of the biggest games,” he said after the Brentford game. “We have to be confident, play our game and try to win.” That mindset must define Arsenal’s approach.

Madrid will attack from the first whistle. Carlo Ancelotti admitted the odds are against them but still spoke of belief. “In football, everything can happen,” he said. Arsenal cannot afford to simply absorb pressure and hope to survive. That would be the quickest route to disaster.

History has seen dramatic comebacks — Barcelona’s miracle against PSG, Liverpool’s dismantling of Barca, and Deportivo’s destruction of AC Milan. Madrid have pulled off their own: Wolfsburg in 2016, PSG in 2022, and Derby County as far back as 1975. This club does not give up.

Jakub Kiwior is right to remain level-headed. “The most difficult thing is still ahead of us,” he said. The Polish defender was immense in the first leg but knows the Bernabeu presents a different test. Calm heads and bold hearts will be needed.

Arsenal’s instinct might be to sit deep and protect their lead. But Arteta’s side are at their best when they press, dominate and play with purpose. Retreating into a shell would be an invitation to disaster.

The data supports them — only four teams in Champions League history have overturned a three-goal first-leg deficit. All 11 English teams who previously won by such a margin went through. Still, this is Real Madrid.

Partey called it a “beautiful moment.” He is right. Arsenal have a rare opportunity not just to reach a semi-final, but to knock out the kings of Europe in their own palace.

To do that, they must resist fear. Respect the opponent, but not the myth. Press high, stay brave, and look to score. Play to win. That is how you silence Madrid. That is how you earn history.

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