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

After a dominant performance in the first leg where Arsenal defeated Real Madrid 3-0, the Gunners must reset and focus on the crucial second leg in Madrid. Carlo Ancelotti`s Real Madrid remains confident in their ability to overcome the three-goal deficit, even without Eduardo Camavinga. The Champions League is renowned for dramatic comebacks, and Real Madrid will be aiming for another.

In the first leg, Real Madrid only managed three shots on target, while Declan Rice scored two impressive free kicks. The Spanish team faces a significant challenge, but entering with fear would be detrimental. James Benge suggests a comeback might be too difficult for Madrid against this determined Arsenal side with a strong defense. However, the game still needs to be played. Madrid`s recent form has been inconsistent, with three losses in their last five matches across all competitions, jeopardizing their La Liga campaign and Champions League aspirations.

Here’s a look at the key storylines and viewing information:

How to Watch Real Madrid vs. Arsenal, and Betting Odds

• 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 against Arsenal, but momentum shifted after Rice`s stunning free kick. Arsenal`s defense effectively neutralized Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, limiting their clear chances. Rice then scored another brilliant goal, and Mikel Merino further extended Arsenal`s lead. Camavinga`s red card means Real Madrid will be missing a key midfielder for this second leg, adding to the challenge after their 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 doesn`t advance, they are expected to give their all, with Mbappe in the spotlight. Signed to elevate Real Madrid in Europe, the attack has sometimes lacked balance integrating him. For Real Madrid to win, Mbappe needs a standout performance.

What`s at Stake

Legacies. Arsenal is seeking their first Champions League title and are close to overcoming Real Madrid, a historical powerhouse in the competition. After narrowly missing Premier League titles under Mikel Arteta, this is a pivotal moment for Arsenal to prove their place among the top global teams. Victory over Real Madrid could position Arsenal as a favorite, even with Paris Saint-Germain potentially next. For Real Madrid and Ancelotti, with speculation around his future, securing back-to-back Champions League titles would be the ultimate achievement, solidifying his legacy if this is his final season.

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 preparation ensured a seamless transition. Kiwior stepped into central defense and performed strongly in the first leg. Repeating that performance at the Santiago Bernabeu is a bigger test. If Kiwior plays as well as in the first leg, Arsenal`s chances of advancing are high.

Storyline to Watch

Who scores the first goal? The first goal is critical in this match. An early Real Madrid goal could create doubts for Arsenal, while an Arsenal goal would make Real Madrid`s task of overcoming a four-goal deficit even harder. While Champions League comebacks from three goals down have happened, a four-goal comeback would be unprecedented. Arsenal should be confident that scoring once will likely secure their progression, requiring Real Madrid to score four just to force extra time.

Prediction

Real Madrid, led by Mbappe, will challenge Arsenal, but scoring three goals against the Gunners` defense is a difficult task. Arsenal has not conceded three goals in a game this season. Real Madrid has struggled to keep clean sheets recently, likely needing four goals to even reach extra time. While Arsenal has been known to falter under pressure in the past, this season feels different with a healthy Saka and Odegaard. This should be enough to see them through, even if they lose this second leg away from home.

Pick: Real Madrid 2, Arsenal 1

Champions League Quarterfinals Schedule