Arsenal has reached the Champions League final for the first time since 2006, defeating Atletico Madrid 2-1 on aggregate, with Bukayo Saka scoring the decisive goal. The Gunners are now also on the brink of securing their first Premier League title in 22 years.
LONDON (AP) — Arsenal has secured its place in the Champions League final, overcoming Atletico Madrid with a 2-1 aggregate victory in a thrilling semifinal. Bukayo Saka, who was still four years away from joining Arsenal's academy the last time they reached the final, scored the crucial goal in the 45th minute, slotting home a rebound. Saka, 24, expressed his elation, telling Amazon Prime, 'You’re taking me away from the celebrations, man. It is so beautiful.' Arsenal's formidable defense proved pivotal, maintaining clean sheets at home throughout all three knockout rounds and having conceded a competition-low four goals in the league phase. Manager Mikel Arteta lauded defender Gabriel for a critical intervention that thwarted an Atletico equalizer. Despite frustrations over referee decisions, including a denied penalty claim for Antoine Griezmann, Atletico coach Diego Simeone acknowledged Arsenal's deserved progression. This marks Arsenal's second appearance in Europe’s premier competition final, having lost to Barcelona in 2006. They will face either defending champion Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in Budapest, Hungary, on May 30. The London club is on the cusp of a historic season, just one game away from its first European Cup title and three victories away from its first Premier League crown in 22 years, following rival Manchester City's recent draw. Saka encapsulated the team's aspirations, stating, 'Now we are in the final of the Champions League and we’re fighting for the Premier League. It’s a beautiful a story and I hope it ends well in Budapest.'
