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Arsenal edges Atletico to reach Champions League final after 20 years

Bukayo Saka of Arsenal (#07) scores his team’s opening goal during the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid at Emirates Stadium in north London, May 5, 2026. (AFP Photo)
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Bukayo Saka of Arsenal (#07) scores his team’s opening goal during the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid at Emirates Stadium in north London, May 5, 2026. (AFP Photo)
May 06, 2026 09:48 AM GMT+03:00

Arsenal secured a place in the UEFA Champions League final after defeating Atletico Madrid 1-0 in the semifinal second leg at the Emirates Stadium, progressing 2-1 on aggregate.

Following a 1-1 draw in the first leg, the London side delivered a disciplined performance to edge past its Spanish opponents. The match was largely defined by cautious play in the opening stages, with both teams prioritizing defensive organization.

Arsenal gradually increased its attacking intensity and found the decisive breakthrough just before halftime. In the 45th minute, Bukayo Saka converted from close range after Leandro Trossard’s initial effort was parried by goalkeeper Jan Oblak.

The home side maintained control in the closing stages to preserve its narrow advantage and confirm its progression to the final.

Gabriel Magalhaes (#06) and Kepa Arrizabalaga (#13) celebrate Arsenal’s success, while Diego Simeone consoles David Hancko following Atletico Madrid’s defeat in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg at Emirates Stadium in north London, May 5, 2026. (AFP Photo)
Gabriel Magalhaes (#06) and Kepa Arrizabalaga (#13) celebrate Arsenal’s success, while Diego Simeone consoles David Hancko following Atletico Madrid’s defeat in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg at Emirates Stadium in north London, May 5, 2026. (AFP Photo)

Return to final after two decades

Arsenal return to the Champions League final for the first time in two decades, marking a historic milestone for the club since their last appearance in 2006.

The Gunners will now await the winner of the semi-final clash between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, with the final set to be played on May 30 in Budapest. It will be a chance for Arsenal to end a long wait for European glory on the biggest stage.

May 06, 2026 09:49 AM GMT+03:00
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