Bukayo Saka’s performance gave Arsenal a huge lead over Atletico Madrid towards the end of the first half.
Victor Gokeres kept the ball well on the right and crossed to Leandro Trossard.
The Belgian looked hesitant on the ball and for a moment it looked like his chance was gone in front of Atlético’s compact defence.
However, Trossard managed to fire a low drive into the bottom corner. Jan Oblak responded with a sharp parry, while Bukayo Saka was the most alert in the box, looking for the rebound.
It was a big goal from Saka, and a big goal that took Arsenal 45 minutes from reaching the Champions League final.
Look at the goals below.
Saka’s amazing form since returning from injury
Saka made an immediate impact upon his return from an Achilles injury, proving once again why he is essential to Mikel Arteta’s tactical structure.
After a long absence until April, he returned to the starting lineup last weekend and looked like a man on a mission.
Saka played just 45 minutes in the crucial 3-0 win over Fulham, which left them six points (now five) behind Premier League leaders Arsenal, but still managed to provide a goal and an assist.
Tonight, he transferred that domestic dominance to the European stage.
Arsenal suffered heartbreak earlier this year after losing the League Cup final to Manchester City and suffering a shock exit to Southampton in the FA Cup. There is still a strong possibility of a historic double victory in the Premier League and Champions League.
With Saka firing on all cylinders, the Gunners look poised to exorcise their continental demons and finally claim the trophy that has eluded them for decades.
