Arsenal beat Atletico Madrid to reach first Champions League final in 20 years
Arsenal have reached their first Champions League final in two decades after Bukayo Saka’s first-half strike secured a 1-0 second-leg victory over Atletico Madrid at Emirates Stadium.
The result seals a 2-1 aggregate win for Mikel Arteta’s side, setting up a showpiece clash against either Bayern Munich or Paris St-Germain.
It marks the end of a 20-year wait for the north London club on Europe’s biggest stage.
Their last appearance ended in heartbreak following a 2-1 defeat by Barcelona in the 2006 final in Paris.
Teenager stars in midfield
While the England winger provided the decisive goal, it was the standout performance of an academy graduate that captured the attention of supporters.
Making only his 17th appearance of the campaign, Myles Lewis-Skelly delivered a masterful display in the heart of the pitch.
The versatile teenager started alongside Declan Rice, providing the energy and composure needed to give his senior partner the freedom to dictate play.
“Lewis Skelly and Ricardo Calafiori are actually giving Declan Rice that freedom to move forward deep,” noted one supporter on social media.
World Cup selection debate begins
Spanish international Martin Zubimendi has predominantly partnered Rice this season, but the homegrown prospect has now complicated the manager’s selection plans.
The youngster’s commanding form follows an equally impressive showing during a recent 3-0 domestic victory over Fulham.
“Lewis Skelly has taken that shirt from Zubimendi,” wrote another fan. “I hope he gets into the England team for the World Cup.”
Breaking into the senior international setup in central midfield presents a significant challenge for the natural left-back.
He faces fierce competition from established talents including Jude Bellingham, Kobbie Mainoo and Elliot Anderson.
However, if the defender continues this rapid trajectory into the European final, full international recognition could soon become a genuine possibility.