Arsenal have half the job done in reaching their first Champions League semi final since 2009.
Jack Wilshere reacted to Declan Rice’s display with a simple one word message of ‘bargain’ after the midfielder struck two sensational free kicks to put Arsenal in control of the tie.
Mikel Merino continued his fine form for the Gunners with a finish any seasoned striker would have been proud of as Mikel Arteta’s side produced a memorable Champions League display.
Spain’s media lauded Bukayo Saka for his performance on the right wing as he tormented David Alaba throughout the game. However, another impressive display from one player has gone under the radar.
Jurrien Timber gives Vinicius Jr unwanted Champions League History
Keeping a clean sheet against an attack that included Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr is not something that comes easy and the Gunners were superb in their containment of the dangerous attack.
Myles Lewis-Skelly ‘amazed’ the Spanish press with his display up against Rodrygo and Jurrien Timber mirrored the performance up against Vinicius Jr.
The full backs played a huge part in giving the Real Madrid wingers some unwanted Champions League history in failing to dribble past an opponent for the first time.
Arteta will be thrilled with his duos ability to defend one v one and will now be formulating a plan on how to repeat the feat in the second leg at the Bernabeu.
Jurrien Timber match statistics vs Real Madrid
Whilst the likes of Rice and Saka will take many of the plaudits, Timber’s role in the victory should not be underestimated against one of the world’s best in Vinicius Jr.
From the first minute, the Dutch defender was on the front foot and was determined to force the Brazilian back towards his own goal.
Timber’s ability to close space so quickly and be strong in the duels is no doubt what attracted Arteta to his signature but there is so much more to his game than just being strong defensively.
His ability to play through the lines and combine with Saka was evident in the 3-0 win and he will key once again should Arsenal manage to see the job through.
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