Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois stated that his team is ready to address their issues defending set pieces and neutralize Arsenal`s potent threat from dead ball situations in their Champions League quarterfinal first leg on Tuesday.
After conceding their tenth goal of the season from a corner against Valencia, Real Madrid are wary of Arsenal`s set-piece capabilities. 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.
Despite the potential absence of Gabriel Magalhaes, a key set-piece threat for Arsenal, Real Madrid recognizes the danger posed by Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice`s deliveries. Courtois warned that Arsenal is capable of winning games solely through set pieces, highlighting Madrid`s awareness of this threat.
`We practiced defending set pieces in training yesterday,` Courtois mentioned. `We are aware of Arsenal`s strength in this area and need to minimize the number of corners we concede. It`s about maintaining focus. While the opposition`s quality can create difficulties, we believe we have prepared effectively. We will use our usual zonal and man-to-man marking systems, anticipating Arsenal`s tactics and focusing on defending effectively. Set pieces are crucial, and they can decide the outcome of a match.`
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti echoed Courtois` sentiments, acknowledging Arsenal`s set-piece strength but also pointing out Real Madrid`s own ability to score from dead balls. He highlighted the importance of set pieces as a significant aspect of the game, alongside open play.
Beyond defending set pieces, Real Madrid`s penalty-taking duties are also under scrutiny. After Vinicius Junior missed a penalty against Valencia, Ancelotti indicated that the designated penalty taker role is being evaluated, while expressing confidence in Vinicius`s ability to bounce back.
The upcoming match pits Champions League veterans Real Madrid against Arsenal, who are returning to the quarterfinal stage after a long absence. Ancelotti emphasized the value of experience in high-pressure Champions League matches, stating that it provides confidence and reduces fear in crucial games like this quarterfinal.
