Reasons behind Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Real Madrid: Saliba reveals key factors

In the just-concluded first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals of the 2024/25 season, Arsenal defeated defending champions Real Madrid 3-0 at their home ground, the Emirates Stadium. In an interview after the match, French defender William Saliba shared the core factors that led to his team’s victory – the support of the fans, the unity of the whole team in defence and staying focused.

The fans’ support was a strong motivation

Saliba repeatedly emphasised in the interview that the support of the Arsenal fans was an important part of the victory. He said: “Just as we were travelling to the stadium on the bus, we saw a large group of fans waiting for us on the roadside. They had banners, they were chanting slogans and the atmosphere was so emotional. Every one of us could feel their enthusiasm.”

With this enthusiastic atmosphere, the players took the field with more confidence and played at their best. Saliba admits that it is important to be motivated on a psychological level, especially in a competition of the level of the Champions League. “Having them there is like an extra strength for us. And because of that, we were able to play so well.”

A solid defensive performance was the key to victory

In addition to the mental motivation brought by the fans, Saliba also pointed out that Arsenal’s performance on the defensive end was also one of the keys to beating Real Madrid. In this game, he and his teammate Kewell formed a centre-back partnership, and the two of them had a tacit understanding and close cooperation, effectively limiting the play of several star strikers of Real Madrid.

‘Our defence was really good tonight,’ said Saliba, “It’s a proud achievement to get a clean sheet against a strong team like Real Madrid. It was a game where we didn’t give them too many chances and everyone in the back line stayed highly focused.”

In fact, this was Arsenal’s sixth shutout in the Champions League this season. This stable defensive ability provides a solid foundation for the team and more room for players at the attacking end to play freely.

The team as a whole was impeccable

Aside from the defence, Saliba also praised the team’s overall performance. “It was a big night and meant a lot to us. Every player worked hard throughout the game and contributed to the win.” He said, ‘We are really proud of ourselves for keeping up the high intensity of the fight in such an important game and ultimately picking up the win.’

He also added, “We played a very organised game and everyone knew what they were doing and the pace of each other. That understanding and discipline allowed us to face Real Madrid with aplomb.”

A perfect win, but far from over

Despite Arsenal building a three-goal lead in the first leg, Saliba didn’t take it lightly. He reminded his team-mates and fans that the road to promotion is not over.

‘It’s too early to say we’re in the semi-finals,’ Saliba said guardedly, “Of course we’re happy to have won today’s game, but it’s only half the journey. We have to go to Madrid next and that’s the real challenge.”

He emphasised the need for the team to maintain their current state of focus and use this win as motivation, ‘We have to keep working hard and play well again in the second leg.’

Victory comes from a combination of many aspects

Arsenal’s victory did not rely on luck, but a combination of many factors:

• Fan support enhanced team morale;
• Stability of the back line effectively limited the opponent’s attack;
• Team tacit understanding and tactical execution ensured control of the game;
• Mindfulness of calmness and focus prepared the team for the second round of the battle. preparation.

As Saliba said, “Tonight was perfect, but we can’t be satisfied. Only one more win and we can really celebrate.” These heartfelt words also put a firm comma, not a full stop, on the victory.