Arsenal travel to Real Madrid tonight within touching distance of the Champions League semi-finals. Mikel Arteta’s side thrashed Real Madrid 3-0 in the first leg of their quarter-final tie last week, with Declan Rice (2) and Mikel Merino on target. The Gunners are aiming to avoid becoming just the fifth side to exit the Champions League after taking a three-goal lead into the second leg. A first semi-final appearance since 2009 is the prize on offer.
⚫️ 𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗖𝗛𝘋𝗔𝙔 🔴 🆚 Real Madrid 🕗 8pm (UK) 🏆 Champions League 🏟️ Santiago Bernabeu
Real Madrid have not given up hope of defending their crown but must produce an extraordinary comeback to progress. The Spanish giants have reached at least the semi-finals in each of the last four campaigns. Carlo Ancelotti’s team is under immense pressure, as the odds are stacked against them following the heavy defeat in the first leg.
Arsenal comes into this match with mixed feelings. After their emphatic win over Madrid, they faced a setback in the Premier League, drawing 1-1 with Brentford. This result has put a dent in their title hopes, making the Champions League their only viable chance of silverware this season.
In terms of team news, Mikel Arteta will be without several key players for this crucial encounter. Jorginho, who suffered a rib injury during the weekend match against Brentford, joins Gabriel Magalhaes, Kai Havertz, Riccardo Calafiori, Gabriel Jesus, and Takehiro Tomiyasu on the sidelines. However, there is a silver lining as Ben White and Thomas Partey have been passed fit and are expected to play.
For Real Madrid, the situation is equally challenging. They will miss backup goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, along with defenders Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, and Ferland Mendy, all sidelined due to injuries. Additionally, Eduardo Camavinga is suspended following a red card in the first leg. On a positive note, Dani Ceballos has returned from injury and could play a key role in the match.
As the match approaches, the atmosphere at the Santiago Bernabeu is electric. Fans are hopeful of witnessing a historic comeback, as Real Madrid has not overturned a three-goal deficit in the Champions League since 1976. The pressure is mounting on the Merengues, who have built a reputation for miraculous comebacks in European competitions.
Arsenal, on the other hand, has a solid defensive record, having not conceded a single goal against Real Madrid in their previous three encounters. They will be looking to maintain this record and secure their spot in the semi-finals.
Kick-off is set for 20:00 BST, and the match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1 in the UK. As the teams prepare to take the field, one thing is certain: this encounter promises to be a thrilling clash between two of Europe’s elite clubs.
With the stakes high, both sides will be eager to make their mark. Arsenal will aim to capitalize on their first-leg advantage, while Real Madrid will seek to defy the odds and keep their title defense alive. The footballing world will be watching closely as these two giants collide in what is sure to be an unforgettable night.
In conclusion, the stage is set for an epic showdown at the Bernabeu. Arsenal hopes to secure their place in the semi-finals, while Real Madrid aims to turn the tide and keep their dreams of European glory alive. Fans from both sides are in for a treat as they witness a match that could define the season for both teams.
