Football fans have criticized Jude Bellingham for his gamesmanship directed at Bukayo Saka just before Saka missed a penalty.
The 23-year-old Arsenal player was a key figure in the match at the Bernabeu on Wednesday night.
Saka had earlier scored the opening goal, skillfully chipping the ball over Thibaut Courtois to extend Arsenal`s lead to 4-0 on aggregate.
Although Vinicius Junior scored one goal back for Real Madrid, Gabriel Martinelli secured a significant victory against the Champions League titleholders.
However, earlier in the game, Saka`s attempted Panenka penalty was easily saved.
Referee Francois Letexier awarded the penalty following a VAR review for a foul on Mikel Merino.
Martin Odegaard initially picked up the ball, appearing ready to take the penalty.
But Saka was present, seemingly to take responsibility for the shot.
As Saka waited, Bellingham approached him and whispered something in his ear while placing a hand on his shoulder.
Saka seemed to ignore Bellingham`s attempt at mind games.
Social media users expressed their disapproval of Bellingham`s actions, while some humorously suggested what Bellingham might have said to Saka.
One comment stated, “He maybe needs to concentrate on his own game for a bit. Barely saw him tonight.”
Another user wrote, “Boy, he’s gone down in my estimation. Really not all that.”
A third added, “`I wish I could turn up for the big games. How do you do it?`”
A fourth commented, “He said, `Please let me win.`”
A fifth typed, “`Give us a chance please.`”
And a final user replied, “`Can you let me know how I can escape from Declan’s pocket, Bukayo?`”
Regardless of Bellingham`s words, they might have affected Saka, leading to the missed penalty.
Bellingham also clashed with his England teammate, Declan Rice, as his frustration grew during a tough night for Real Madrid.
Saka, supported by his girlfriend Tolami Benson, also faced confrontation from Dani Carvajal in a heated exchange at halftime.
However, Saka and Arsenal had the last laugh, securing a 5-1 aggregate victory and advancing to the semi-finals against PSG.
Arsenal will be without Thomas Partey for the first leg of the semi-final due to suspension. Partey received a yellow card for arguing with Antonio Rudiger, knowing another booking would lead to suspension.
