Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois stated that the team is prepared to solve their issues with defending set pieces. This preparation is crucial as they are about to face Arsenal, a team known for its dangerous set plays, in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal match on Tuesday.
Recently, Real Madrid has conceded 10 goals from corner kicks this season, including one in their 2-1 defeat against Valencia. This statistic is worrying because Arsenal is highly effective at scoring from set pieces. In fact, Arsenal has scored 31 league goals from set pieces since the beginning of last season, a number surpassed only by Bayer Leverkusen in Europe`s top leagues.
Although Arsenal might be missing Gabriel Magalhaes, who is injured, they still possess significant threat from set pieces due to the excellent delivery of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice. Their crosses and passes from dead-ball situations are so precise and dangerous that they can lead to goals even without a tall center-back in the box. Real Madrid is well aware of this danger, and Courtois warned that Arsenal has the capability to win a game solely through set pieces.
Courtois mentioned that the team practiced defending set pieces in their training session, emphasizing their understanding of Arsenal`s strength in this area. He highlighted the importance of concentration and avoiding giving away too many corners. He acknowledged the challenge posed by quality opponents with good positioning during set pieces but expressed confidence in their preparation.
He further explained their defensive strategy, which involves a mix of zonal marking and man-to-man marking, along with player intuition to anticipate the ball`s trajectory. They are also prepared for Arsenal`s attempts to block the goalkeeper during set pieces.
Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid`s coach, echoed Courtois`s confidence. He pointed out that Real Madrid is also capable of scoring from set pieces, mentioning their recent goals against Real Sociedad and Valencia. He recognized set pieces as a vital aspect of the game, alongside open play.
In addition to set pieces, the Madrid press has also been focusing on penalties. Vinicius Junior recently missed a penalty, raising questions about his role as the primary penalty taker. Ancelotti confirmed that this role is under consideration but expressed his support for Vinicius, believing he will perform well in the upcoming match.
The upcoming first leg match is significant as it pits Real Madrid, the most successful club in Champions League history, against Arsenal, who are returning to this stage after a long absence. Arsenal`s last quarterfinal appearance was 14 years ago. Ancelotti emphasized the importance of experience in such high-pressure Champions League matches, stating that it provides confidence to players who have played in similar games before.
Dominic Ashworth