Real Madrid vs. Arsenal: Champions League Quarter-Final Second Leg Preview

After a dominant 3-0 victory in the first leg, Arsenal travels to Madrid for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid. Despite the comfortable lead, Arsenal cannot afford to be complacent against the kings of comebacks, Real Madrid.

Real Madrid, under Carlo Ancelotti, are known for their resilience and will believe they can overturn the three-goal deficit, even without Eduardo Camavinga. The Champions League is famous for its dramatic turnarounds, and Real Madrid have history on their side.

In the first leg, Real Madrid struggled to create clear chances, managing only three shots on target, while Declan Rice impressed with two stunning free-kicks. Real Madrid faces a significant challenge, but they must approach the game with confidence to have any chance of progressing. Despite Madrid`s history of comebacks, Arsenal`s strong defense and determination could prove too difficult to overcome. Real Madrid`s recent form has been inconsistent, failing to win three of their last five matches, putting pressure on their La Liga campaign and Champions League hopes.

How to Watch Real Madrid vs. Arsenal, Match Details

• Date: Wednesday, April 16
• Location: Estadio Santiago Bernabeu — Madrid, Spain
• Live stream: Paramount+
• Odds: Real Madrid -140; Draw +300; Arsenal +340

First Leg Recap

Real Madrid had early opportunities in the first leg, but momentum shifted after Rice`s spectacular free-kick. Arsenal`s defense effectively contained Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, limiting their clear-cut chances. Rice`s second moment of brilliance and a goal from Mikel Merino extended Arsenal`s lead. Camavinga`s red card further compounds Real Madrid`s problems for the second leg, although changes were expected regardless after the heavy defeat.

Best Bets

Kylian Mbappe to have 3+ shots on target (+110): This match is crucial for Mbappe`s legacy. Even if Real Madrid is eliminated, they will aim to give their all, and Mbappe will be central to their efforts. Signed to elevate Real Madrid in Europe, Mbappe`s integration into the attack has sometimes disrupted the team`s balance. For Real Madrid to win, Mbappe needs to deliver a game-changing performance.

What`s at Stake

Legacies. Arsenal are chasing their first Champions League title, and they are on the verge of overcoming Real Madrid, a historically dominant team in the competition. For Arsenal, who have been close to Premier League success under Mikel Arteta, this is a pivotal moment to solidify their place among Europe`s elite. Victory against Real Madrid could elevate Arsenal`s status as a favorite to win the Champions League, even with Paris Saint-Germain potentially awaiting in the next round. For Real Madrid and Ancelotti, with speculation surrounding his future, winning consecutive Champions League titles would be the ultimate achievement. It`s a difficult task, but if any team can achieve it, it`s Real Madrid.

Predicted Lineups

Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois, Lucas Vazquez, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, Francisco Garcia, Aurelien Tchouameni, Fede Valverde, Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe

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

Player to Watch

Jakub Kiwior, Arsenal: Gabriel`s injury raised concerns about Arsenal`s defense, but Arteta`s tactical setup ensured a seamless transition. Kiwior stepped into central defense and performed admirably in the first leg. Repeating that performance at the Santiago Bernabeu will be a sterner test. Kiwior`s ability to replicate his first-leg form will be crucial for Arsenal`s progression.

Storyline to Watch

Who scores the first goal? The first goal will be decisive in this match. An early Real Madrid goal could instill doubt in Arsenal, while an Arsenal goal would require Real Madrid to score four just to force extra time. Although Champions League comebacks from three goals down have happened, overturning a four-goal deficit would be unprecedented. Arsenal will be confident that scoring first would effectively secure their passage to the next round.

Prediction

Real Madrid, led by Mbappe, will pressure Arsenal, but overcoming a three-goal deficit against a solid Arsenal defense is a tall order. Arsenal have not conceded three goals in a game this season. Real Madrid`s defensive vulnerabilities mean they likely need four goals to even reach extra time. While Arsenal have faltered in high-pressure situations before, this season feels different. With key players like Saka and Odegaard fit, Arsenal should secure a significant result, progressing past Real Madrid despite a potential away defeat. Pick: Real Madrid 2, Arsenal 1

Champions League Quarterfinals Schedule

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