Why the word ‘remontada’ trended after Real Madrid crashed out of the UCL

The Spanish word ‘remontada’, meaning a comeback or turning things around under difficult circumstances, dominated social media conversations after Arsenal eliminated Real Madrid from the Champions League with a 5-1 aggregate score.

Prior to the first leg, where Arsenal led 3-0, Real Madrid players and supporters boasted that they were confident of overturning the deficit to advance to the next stage, citing their history in the competition.

However, this ambition was derailed after Madrid lost the second leg to Arsenal 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabéu on April 16, 2025, failing to impress as expected.

Bukayo Saka and Martinelli’s goals were enough to secure the Gunners’ victory in Spain, with Vinicius Junior scoring a consolation goal.

Football fans took to social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter), to ridicule Real Madrid for their boasts and subsequent failure.

Some criticised the team for arrogance, undermining Arsenal’s performance and chances of surviving at the Bernabéu to secure qualification.

Others expressed disappointment and mocked key Madrid players like Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Kylian Mbappé for their poor performance despite championing the ‘remontada’ agenda.

Following Madrid’s elimination from the Champions League, they will now focus on the Spanish La Liga and the Copa del Rey, where they will face Barcelona in the final on April 26, 2025.

Read some of the reactions below:

Meanwhile, watch part 2 of Sports Check with veteran coach JE Sarpong

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