The Champions League quarterfinals are here, and Arsenal versus Real Madrid stands out as the most exciting matchup. These two teams will clash in European competition for only the second time, nearly two decades after Arsenal`s victory led by Thierry Henry.
In their previous encounter, Arsene Wenger`s Arsenal shut out Real Madrid, which featured stars like Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane, in both legs. This time, Arsenal might be without Gabriel Magalhaes as they face the current Champions League title holders. Real Madrid will also be missing key players such as Aurelien Tchouameni, Dani Ceballos, and Ferland Mendy for their visit to London.
This game promises to be captivating. Let`s explore where the match could be decided:
Arsenal`s Home Defense to Stand Strong
Just as Arsenal seemed to be gaining momentum, an injury setback occurred. Bukayo Saka`s return was timely for a quarterfinal where their strong defense could be crucial. There were echoes of their 2006 Champions League run, but this time Mikel Arteta has a defense full of top players, unlike the surprisingly effective Mathieu Flamini at left-back in Arsene Wenger’s team that reached the final 19 years prior.
However, Gabriel`s hamstring injury is a significant blow. He is a key defender for Arsenal and would have been important against players like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior. While William Saliba is arguably more technically gifted, Gabriel is the vocal leader of the defense. His absence is significant, as highlighted by him rarely being out of the starting lineup.
Gabriel`s absence will be felt, but perhaps Arsenal can cope better than initially feared. Despite injury concerns to Jurrien Timber and Ben White, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that all players available for the Everton game, including Timber and White, are fit for the Madrid match.
This provides Arteta with options. Timber or Saliba could shift positions, with White filling in at right-back. Alternatively, Jakub Kiwior could directly replace Gabriel. While Kiwior might be a slight downgrade in individual quality, Real Madrid`s less intense pressing style might minimize any vulnerabilities.
Focusing too much on individual absences might overlook Arsenal`s overall defensive strength. As Sander Berge noted after Fulham`s defeat to Arsenal, their defense operates with exceptional coordination, making it difficult to find weaknesses. Gabriel is a key organizer, but Arsenal`s defensive system is so well-drilled that they can adapt even with a crucial player missing.
Saka to Show Moments of Brilliance
The other crucial aspect of the tie is Arsenal`s attack against Real Madrid`s potentially vulnerable defense. With injuries to Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy, Real Madrid might have to use makeshift full-backs. Aurelien Tchouameni`s suspension and Dani Ceballos` injury further complicate their midfield and defensive setup.
Can Arsenal exploit this? Gabriel Martinelli has shown improved form recently, but Bukayo Saka`s performance is likely to be decisive. Before his injury in December, Saka was in excellent form, contributing significantly with goals and assists. Arsenal`s attacking output noticeably decreased during Saka`s absence, highlighting his importance.
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If Saka is at his best, he could cause significant problems for Real Madrid`s defense, particularly against makeshift full-backs. Saka himself acknowledged uncertainty about his readiness but is focused on contributing positively.
The optimistic view for Arsenal is that Saka is a fresh, top-level player at a crucial point in the season. However, realistically, a player with limited recent game time might only produce moments of brilliance. Arsenal must capitalize on these opportunities.
Real Madrid`s Individual Talent to Prevail
If Arsenal can maximize their moments, they might edge a tight, tense match. Their ideal scenario is a controlled, possession-based game, exploiting Madrid`s defensive weaknesses. This strategy could work.
However, it`s Real Madrid in the Champions League, where unexpected events often occur. Arsenal learned last year that top teams like Madrid have exceptional attacking talent. Real Madrid arguably has the most. Even if Arsenal plays well defensively, Madrid`s individual brilliance can change the game.
Even the best defenses can contain players like Mbappe and Vinicius Junior for most of a match, but they only need a moment to be decisive. Real Madrid`s history in the Champions League suggests they often find a way to win. It could happen again.
