Arsenal is set to host Real Madrid in a highly anticipated UEFA Champions League quarter-final match at the Emirates Stadium on April 8, 2025. This clash marks the first leg of the knockout stage, with kickoff scheduled for 8 p.m. BST. Fans around the world can catch the action live on Amazon Prime Video in the UK, while American viewers can tune in via Paramount Plus.
Both teams are coming into this match with high expectations. Arsenal, under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, has shown impressive form recently, overpowering PSV with a staggering 9-3 aggregate score in the round of 16. However, they face a formidable challenge against Real Madrid, the 15-time Champions League winners who edged past Atletico Madrid on penalties in their previous round.
As the Gunners prepare for this pivotal encounter, they will be without key defender Gabriel Magalhaes, who is sidelined with a season-ending hamstring injury. This absence raises questions about how Arsenal's backline will cope with the attacking prowess of Real Madrid, which boasts stars like Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Jr., and Jude Bellingham.
Interestingly, this match represents only the second competitive meeting between these two giants of European football. The last time they faced off was in the 2005/06 Champions League, where Arsenal triumphed on aggregate to reach the final. Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard will also have a personal stake in this match, as it marks his first encounter with his former club since joining the Gunners in 2021.
In terms of team news, Arsenal's lineup will see Bukayo Saka starting for the first time in 2025 after recovering from injury. Jakub Kiwior steps in for Gabriel, while Mikel Merino is expected to lead the attack. Meanwhile, Real Madrid will be missing Aurelien Tchouameni due to suspension, along with injured players Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, and Ferland Mendy. Thibaut Courtois and Dani Ceballos are also doubtful, as they are recovering from injuries sustained in recent matches.
As the match approaches, fans are buzzing with anticipation, and the atmosphere at the Emirates is expected to be electric. Arsenal's previous performances in the Champions League have shown they can challenge even the toughest opponents, and this game is no exception. The team ranks first in the UEFA Champions League for expected goals against per game, with only Internazionale conceding fewer goals.
On the other hand, Real Madrid's recent domestic form has been shaky, trailing behind Barcelona in La Liga. However, their experience and depth in the squad make them a dangerous opponent. Arsenal will need to be on high alert, particularly in dealing with the swift counter-attacks that Madrid is known for.
As the teams take to the field, the stakes couldn't be higher. Arsenal has the opportunity to prove themselves on a grand stage, and a strong performance could set the tone for the remainder of the tie. The Gunners will aim to secure a lead to take to Madrid for the second leg, knowing that every goal counts in this knockout format.
With the Champions League anthem ringing out across the stadium, fans are reminded of the significance of this match. It’s a chance for Arsenal to make a statement, not just in this tournament, but in European football as a whole. The Emirates Stadium is primed for an unforgettable night of football, and as the players line up, the excitement is palpable.
As kickoff approaches, the tension builds. Will Arsenal's makeshift defense hold strong against Real Madrid's star-studded attack? Can they capitalize on their home advantage and secure a crucial first-leg victory? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this match is not to be missed.
As the game unfolds, fans will be glued to their screens, following every moment. For those unable to attend, live updates will be available across various platforms, ensuring no one misses out on the action. Arsenal's quest for Champions League glory continues, and this match against Real Madrid is a monumental step on that journey.
Stay tuned as we bring you all the latest developments from the Emirates Stadium, where every kick, every save, and every goal could define the fate of this quarter-final tie.
