Tue Apr 08 17:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Arsenal’s Shock Victory Over Real Madrid: A Blast from the Past

Ahead of their Champions League quarter-final clash, Arsenal and Real Madrid’s upcoming match has revived memories of their last encounter nineteen years ago. In 2006, a young Arsenal side, featuring a makeshift defense and a talented midfield, pulled off a stunning upset against a star-studded Real Madrid team, progressing to the semi-finals.

Real Madrid, boasting 15 Champions League titles, have a formidable reputation, having scored against almost every opponent in the competition’s history. However, Arsenal remains one of the two exceptions. Their 2005/06 Round of 16 tie saw a 1-0 win at the Santiago Bernabéu, a historic victory for an English team, followed by a goalless draw at Highbury. Thierry Henry’s goal at the Bernabéu sealed the memorable win.

While Real Madrid fielded a veteran team including Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo, and Roberto Carlos, Arsenal’s youthful squad, featuring Kolo Touré (man of the match), Cesc Fàbregas, and Henry, displayed impressive resilience. Despite the defensive injuries to Sol Campbell, Ashley Cole and Gaël Clichy, Arsenal’s defense held firm. The overall market value of the two sides was comparable, with Arsenal’s at €146m and Real Madrid’s at €155m.

This historical clash provides a fascinating context for their upcoming quarter-final. Arsenal’s current defensive injury concerns are mirrored in the 2006 match, potentially offering hope for a repeat performance. The match, a David vs Goliath story, highlights the unpredictability of Champions League football.

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