Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has reacted with excitement following Arsenal’s historic Champions League victory over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Nottingham Forest fullback joined millions of fans across the world in celebrating the Gunners’ sensational 2-1 away win, which sealed a dominant 5-1 aggregate victory and booked their place in the semi-finals of Europe’s elite competition.
Aina took to social media shortly after the final whistle, hailing the North London side for “dealing with” the 15-time champions in their backyard, a result many had thought was impossible before the tie began.
OLA AINA😭😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/tjTMVJ4ep4
— munii🧃 (@m1nuyln) April 16, 2025
Mikel Arteta’s men produced one of the greatest nights in European football as they kept their heads down to get the needed result despite the pressure on the North London team.
Saka and Martinelli deliver on big night
Arsenal, already 3-0 up from the first leg, came into the game with pressure from the home crowd and a resurgent Real Madrid side desperate to mount a comeback.
But Bukayo Saka, who missed a penalty in the first half, silenced the Bernabeu when he delicately chipped the ball over Thibaut Courtois for the opener after the restart, Sky Sports reports.
Although Vinicius Junior briefly brought Los Blancos level following a defensive slip from William Saliba, Arsenal did not lose their composure.
1 - Arsenal are first team ever to win each of their first two games against Real Madrid at Santiago Bernabéu in all competitions. Historic. pic.twitter.com/3RAgSDhMLF
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) April 16, 2025
With time ticking away, Gabriel Martinelli broke free in stoppage time to score a well-taken goal, sealing an unforgettable 2-1 win on the night and completing a 5-1 dismantling of the Spanish giant on aggregate, per talkSPORT
Gunners fans hail Ola Aina
Ola Aina’s show of support comes as Nigerian fans continue backing the Gunners, largely because of Bukayo Saka’s prominence and his Nigerian roots.
Aina, clearly thrilled by the Gunners’ performance, praised their determination and sharpness in one of Europe’s toughest football arenas, and now fans are begging Arsenal to sign the Super Eagles defender.
“He's lowkey an Arsenal fan,” @Mustaphafaisol tweeted.
“Tomiyasu pack it up, welcome to Arsenal Ola Aina,” @bukayo_irfan posted.
“Hahahaha Aina is so funny man. Would LOVE to have him at the club 😮💨,” @AbassKK also tweeted.
Arsenal now eye PSG in semi-final showdown
The win marks Arsenal’s return to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2009, and only the third time in the club's history.
Arsenal beat Real Madrid to reach the semi-finals 💪#UCL pic.twitter.com/DNqHFf7XOV
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 16, 2025
The Gunners now set their sights on a tough battle against Paris Saint-Germain, who secured their last-four place by defeating Aston Villa.