Arsenal delivered a jaw-dropping performance on Tuesday night, defeating Real Madrid 3-0 in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals.
The Emirates Stadium was buzzing as goals from Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Martin Ødegaard stunned the 14-time European champions.
However, despite the euphoria, former Arsenal captain Cesc Fàbregas urged fans and players alike to stay grounded, reminding everyone that Real Madrid’s legacy in European football makes them a constant threat — no matter the scoreline.
Speaking on Amazon Prime after the match, Fàbregas praised Arsenal’s performance but issued a clear warning about getting ahead of themselves.
“I’d love to say it’s over,” he admitted, “but Real Madrid is Real Madrid.”
Drawing from his own experience playing for both Arsenal and Barcelona, he highlighted the danger of underestimating Los Blancos, especially when they’re counted out.
Fàbregas analyzed the match in detail, applauding Arsenal’s energy, execution, and maturity.
Yet, he confessed he never felt truly comfortable until the third goal went in — and even then, he knew the tie wasn’t over.
“After the first goal, I said we needed a second.
And after that, I felt we absolutely needed a third,” he explained, underlining just how dangerous Madrid can be with even a glimmer of hope.
He reminded viewers of Real Madrid’s track record of incredible comebacks, both historic and recent.
From the legendary 1986 comeback against Borussia Mönchengladbach to more recent turnarounds against PSG, Chelsea, and Manchester City, Fàbregas made it clear that Madrid thrives in adversity.
“It only takes one moment at the Bernabéu,” he said, emphasizing the unpredictable energy of the Spanish capital’s iconic stadium.
While full of praise for Arsenal’s young talents like Declan Rice and Saka, Fàbregas stopped short of declaring the job done.
“They were brilliant, but this tie is only halfway through.
Real Madrid doesn’t surrender — they grow stronger under pressure,” he noted.
That experience, he argued, is what makes the Spanish giants so formidable, especially in Europe.
Fàbregas concluded with a balanced message: Arsenal fans should enjoy the victory but must understand the challenge that still lies ahead.
“Complacency is Madrid’s best friend,” he warned.
“The moment you believe it’s over, they come alive.”
With the return leg set for the Santiago Bernabéu — a stadium known for producing magical, often heartbreaking moments — the real test is yet to come.
As the second leg approaches, the psychological battle intensifies.
Arsenal must remain composed and focused if they want to book their place in the semifinals.
Fàbregas’s insights serve as a powerful reminder: the Champions League is not won in 90 minutes — especially not against a team like Real Madrid.