Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta described the night as 'incredible' after his team secured a place in the Champions League final for the first time in 20 years. A first-half goal from Bukayo Saka was enough to overcome Atlético Madrid in the semi-final at the Emirates Stadium.
Match Summary
Bukayo Saka scored just before half-time, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to slot home. Atlético substitute Alexander Sørloth missed a golden chance to force extra time in the 86th minute, but Arsenal's defense held firm. The Gunners have now conceded only three goals in seven home Champions League matches this season and remain unbeaten in 14 games in the competition.
Arteta's Reaction
'An incredible night,' Arteta said. 'We made history again together and I cannot be more proud for everyone. The way we were welcomed outside the stadium was special and unique. The atmosphere, our support created the energy; they made it special and unique. I never felt that in the stadium.' He added: 'We knew how much it meant to everybody. The boys did an incredible job. After 20 years and a second time in our history, we are back in the Champions League final.'
Saka's Contribution
Saka, who had missed six weeks with an achilles injury, has now scored in his last two appearances. 'It started before the game when we were arriving on the coach. I have never seen anything like it,' he said. 'It is a beautiful story and I hope it ends well in Budapest.'
Premier League Implications
Manchester City's draw with Everton on Monday means Arsenal are in pole position to win their first Premier League title since 2004. Arteta, whose decision to start teenager Myles Lewis-Skelly in midfield proved successful, urged his players to enjoy the moment before focusing on Sunday's trip to West Ham. 'It's great. Everybody can feel a shift in energy, in belief, in everything,' he said. 'Let's use it in the right way and understand that the margins and the difficulty of what we are trying to achieve are huge, but we have the ability and the conviction to do it.'
Simeone's View
Atlético manager Diego Simeone accepted the defeat gracefully. 'I feel calm. I feel peaceful. The team gave absolutely everything,' he said. 'We were competing with a team that has so much strength and power. We have to accept the place we are in.'
Arsenal will face either Bayern Munich or Paris Saint-Germain in the final in Budapest later this month.
