The stage is set for a thrilling night at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu as Real Madrid faces Arsenal in the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. After suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, the pressure is on Carlo Ancelotti's side to orchestrate a remarkable comeback in front of their home fans.
Kickoff is scheduled for 21:00 local time, with millions of eyes glued to screens around the world. The stakes couldn't be higher: Real Madrid must overturn a three-goal deficit, a feat they haven't achieved in European competition since the 1985/86 season against Borussia Mönchengladbach. However, the history of the Champions League is littered with tales of miraculous comebacks, and the Bernabéu is renowned for its electric atmosphere that can inspire even the most daunting of tasks.
In the first leg, Arsenal's Declan Rice stole the show with two stunning free-kick goals, leading his team to a commanding victory. The Gunners are well aware of the challenge ahead but have shown resilience throughout the season under Mikel Arteta's management. Arsenal arrives in Madrid with a solid record, having never lost a European tie after leading by three goals from the first leg.
As the match approaches, both teams have been preparing intensively. Real Madrid, buoyed by their recent 1-0 victory over Alavés in LaLiga, aims to harness the attacking prowess of their star trio—Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Jr., and Rodrygo. However, they will be without Eduardo Camavinga, who is suspended after receiving a red card in the first leg, along with injured players Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, and Ferland Mendy.
"We have the quality and the commitment to turn this around. The fans believe in us, and we need to channel that energy into our performance," Ancelotti stated in a pre-match press conference. The Real Madrid coach emphasized the importance of starting strong and maintaining control throughout the match. The team’s lineup is expected to feature Thibaut Courtois in goal, with a defensive line of Lucas Vázquez, Raúl Asencio, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba. Midfield will be anchored by Aurélien Tchouaméni, Luka Modric, and Federico Valverde, while the attacking front will see Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Mbappé lead the charge.
On the other hand, Arsenal will also be missing key players, including Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhães, Gabriel Jesus, Riccardo Calafiori, Jorginho, and Takehiro Tomiyasu due to injuries. Their expected lineup includes David Raya, Myles Lewis-Skelly, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, and Jurriën Timber in defense, with Thomas Partey, Rice, and Martin Ødegaard in midfield. Bukayo Saka, Mikel Merino, and Gabriel Martinelli will form the attacking trio.
Fans on both sides are gearing up for an intense atmosphere. Over 4,000 Arsenal supporters have traveled to Madrid, eager to support their team in what could be a historic night for the Gunners, who are seeking a place in the semi-finals for only the third time in their history. Meanwhile, the Madridistas are expected to fill the Bernabéu to capacity, creating a cauldron of noise and pressure that could unsettle the visitors.
Adding to the drama, UEFA has granted Real Madrid permission to close the roof of the Bernabéu for this match, a move that is expected to amplify the atmosphere. The stadium, having undergone a massive £1.5 billion modernization, is now equipped to create a more intense environment, something that Ancelotti believes can play a crucial role in motivating his players.
As the match draws closer, the anticipation is palpable. Real Madrid’s legendary history in the Champions League is built on moments of magic and resilience, and the fans are hopeful for another unforgettable night. "We need to believe and fight for every ball. If we can score early, it will change everything," said Vinicius Jr. in a recent interview.
However, the task at hand is monumental. Real Madrid has not overturned a three-goal deficit at home in European competition in nearly four decades. The last time they faced such a challenge was during the 1985/86 season, and they will need to draw on every ounce of their storied history and experience to achieve the impossible.
In terms of broadcasting, the match will be available on various platforms, including ESPN in South America, FOX Sports in Argentina, Caliente TV in Mexico, Movistar Liga de Campeones in Spain, and TUDN in the United States. For those unable to access these channels, alternatives like Viper Play TV and Fútbol Libre TV are mentioned, but viewers are advised to proceed with caution.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, all eyes will be on the Santiago Bernabéu. Will Real Madrid conjure up another legendary comeback, or will Arsenal hold firm and secure their place in the semi-finals? The stage is set, the players are ready, and the fans are buzzing with excitement. One thing is certain: this match promises to be a spectacle for the ages.
