Arsenal defeated Real Madrid 5-1 in both legs to advance to the 2024–25 Champions League semi-finals. Despite Vinicius Junior’s consolation, the Gunners had a 3-0 lead at home and didn’t appear to be in danger of losing it. Goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka were enough to give them a 2-1 victory.
Mikel Arteta’s team achieved an incredible outcome, in part because he was able to do so without several important players. Due to long-term injuries to attackers Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, Mikel Merino had to start at the top of the attack. With two goals and two assists in both games, he led the line excellently.
But equally deserving of recognition was a player at the other end of the pitch. Fans were naturally concerned when top defender Gabriel suffered a hamstring injury and was sidelined for the remainder of the season. They should have trusted Jakub Kiwior more, though.
Against Real Madrid, Jakub Kiwior steps up and outperforms William Saliba.
Kiwior’s place in the hierarchy at Arsenal is undeniable, even if he has only started four Premier League games this season. While Gabriel and William Saliba are undoubtedly two of the world’s top centre backs, the Poland international excelled against Madrid.
In fact, one could argue that he was the day’s greatest defender in the away match. After all, Saliba had a great game, but he made one crucial mistake that the Spanish press called a “monumental mistake” that cost the Gunners a clean sheet. He lost the ball to Vini Jr. just in front of his own goal.
Kiwior may be proud of his efforts as he helped repel Madrid with five clearances, two blocks, one tackle, and three-quarter duels won. As the statistics above demonstrate, he received a higher SofaScore rating with a 6.9 score.
Kiwior Proves His Doubters Wrong
‘Needs a dissertation-length apology from this fan base”
Online Arsenal supporters weren’t afraid to voice their worries about Kiwior prior to the two matches. Since then, followers have taken to social media to express their regret, claiming that he was a good constable for the injured Gabriel. One person stated:
“Kiwior apologised. What a baller! He only required a string of games to increase his self-assurance and garner fan support.
Someone else said: “Kiwior needs a dissertation-length apology from this fan base.” One fan, however, concurred: “100%. He stepped up tremendously, as if he had been there all year.
I’m sorry, Jakub Kiwior. A third fan acknowledged, “A world-class performance at the Bernabéu—defensive clarity, calm under pressure, elite spatial control.” Others added, “Has been better than Saliba lol.” to their comments. Another said, “I’m sorry for doubting you, Jakub Kiwior, what a performance.”
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