AFCON 2025
The UEFA Champions League quarterfinals lived up to its billing, and in the end, men were separated from boys.
Here are 3 things we learned from the UCL quarterfinals
1. Arteta’s Arsenal have finally come of age
The buildup to Arsenal’s match against Real Madrid centered on Real’s dominance in the competition and speculation about a potential comeback, with much of the hype coming from the Real Madrid camp and local media aiming to pressure Arsenal despite their 3-0 lead.
Declan Rice vs Real Madrid:
49 touches
25/26 passes completed
2 key passes
2/2 tackles won
2 blocks
3 clearances
4 interceptions
5 ball recoveries
3 ground duels wonRan the game. Ran the tie. 👏#UCL pic.twitter.com/vtOZ55AOBm
— WhoScored (@WhoScored) April 16, 2025
It did not work at any stage, with Arsenal instead making near-light work of what was their biggest test as a young team. They were defensively solid despite Gabriel’s absence, and would have kept a clean sheet but for William Saliba gifting Real an undeserved goal.
Inter Milan must be respected
Inter Milan remain a dark horse contender for the Champions League title. They demonstrated versatility in overcoming Bayern Munich, switching between solid defense and potent attack.
Lautaro Martínez is the first Inter player to score in five consecutive UCL games.
A landmark goal for El Toro. 🐂 pic.twitter.com/6CEunbLgEW
— Squawka (@Squawka) April 16, 2025
With a strong defensive display, they contained Bayern in the first half, but shifted gears after Harry Kane’s goal, launching a decisive attack that sealed their win. Inter now face Barcelona in the semifinals, a rematch of their 2010 meeting.
Mbappe fails to light up biggest stage for Real Madrid
Kylian Mbappe struggled to make an impact on the game, failing to score or even test Arsenal’s defense as he watched the Gunners players win every duel.
The French captain swapped Paris for Madrid with the intention of winning Champions League titles and the Ballon d’Or; instead, his move appears to have had the reverse effect.
