Arsenal vs. Real Madrid: Champions League Quarterfinal Match Preview

Arsenal and Real Madrid are preparing to face each other in the Champions League for the first time in nearly two decades. The Gunners are hoping to recreate their success from 2006, when they defeated Real Madrid en route to their first Champions League final. In that encounter, Arsenal, managed by Arsene Wenger, secured a victory in Madrid thanks to Thierry Henry`s goal and kept a clean sheet in both legs of the tie.

Almost twenty years later, Arsenal is still considered the underdog. While they may not be at full strength, particularly with potential absences in defense and attack, their Champions League defense has been strong this season. Bukayo Saka`s return is a boost for the team.

Real Madrid`s journey to this stage has been more challenging, including a victory over Manchester City and a penalty shootout win against Atletico Madrid. Real Madrid`s experience and history in the Champions League are undeniable factors, raising the question of whether this heritage will play a decisive role in the upcoming match.

Viewing Information

• Date: Tuesday, April 8
• Time: 3 p.m. ET
• Location: Emirates Stadium — London
• Live stream: Paramount+
• Odds: Arsenal +125; Draw +220; Real Madrid +230

Last Meeting

Although these teams have never played at the Emirates Stadium, the 2006 match was defined by Thierry Henry`s goal in Madrid. However, Arsenal`s strong defense at Highbury in the second leg was equally crucial. Goalkeeper Jens Lehmann made a key save, and Gilberto Silva made a vital tackle to deny Ronaldo. Arsenal will need a similar level of defensive resilience in this upcoming game.

Road to the Quarterfinals

Real Madrid`s path to the quarterfinals has been eventful. Despite some defeats in the group stage, they overcame Manchester City in the playoffs, thanks to Jude Bellingham`s performance in the first leg, and then defeated Atletico Madrid in a dramatic penalty shootout.

Arsenal`s journey to the quarterfinals has been smoother. They finished top of their group, only losing to Inter, and comfortably defeated PSV Eindhoven in the round of 16.

Predicted Lineups

Arsenal: David Raya; Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Martin Odegaard, Thomas Partey, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli

Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois; Lucas Vazquez, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba; Rodrygo, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham; Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior

Player to Watch

Vinicius Junior, Real Madrid – Despite recent criticism and questions about his partnership with Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid`s manager Carlo Ancelotti remains confident in Vinicius. Ancelotti believes Vinicius will perform well in the upcoming match.

Storyline to Watch

Will Emirates Stadium provide a home advantage? Arsenal has been working to create a strong home atmosphere at the Emirates Stadium. They have not lost a European game at home since February 2020. Manager Mikel Arteta is encouraging fans to create an energetic and supportive environment to boost the team`s performance.

Champions League Quarterfinal Schedule

Quarterfinal TV Schedule

All times U.S./Eastern