Real Madrid faces Arsenal this Tuesday, March 18, 2025, as the first leg of the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-finals heats up at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stéfano. The match kicks off at 18:45, and it marks a significant moment for the Madrid side, as they aim for their first-ever semifinal berth.
Having reached the quarter-finals previously during the 2021-22 season, where they were eliminated by Barcelona, Real Madrid is eager to break new ground this year. Coach Alberto Toril expressed optimism about the upcoming match, stating, "It is the second time we have reached the quarter-finals, and we face it with great enthusiasm. We have the possibility of reaching the semifinals, and it would be an important step in our evolution. We are convinced we will have a great tie."
Despite their ambitions, Real Madrid enters this clash on the heels of a draw against Deportivo La Coruña, which leaves them seven points adrift of league rivals Barcelona. Nonetheless, the team is determined to showcase their strength on the European stage, where they have yet to achieve significant victory on home soil against top-tier teams.
On the other side, Arsenal arrives well-prepared after overcoming their own challenges. Admittedly, their season has been somewhat inconsistent. While they currently sit second in the English Super League, eight points behind Chelsea, they are fresh off a win against Everton (3-1) and come armed with substantial experience, participating 16 times previously in the WUCL quarter-finals—a record they share with Olympique Lyon.
This match also serves as a platform for individual talents, such as Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey, who previously played for Barcelona, and is eager to make her mark again against Madrid. "I enjoy playing against Real Madrid. We had hoped to face them, hoping to return to Spain. It’s exciting to compete against them, and I hope we can eliminate them with Arsenal," she commented on her expectations for the match.
"It’s going to be a beautiful match, and we have the ambition to be among the four best teams in Europe," remarked Real Madrid midfielder Sandie Toletti, emphasizing the importance of fan support during the match. With dedicated backing from their fans, Madrid hopes to gain momentum heading to London for the second leg.
This duel stands not just as another match but as the dawn of new aspirations for Real Madrid, who have only existed as a women's side since absorbing the CD Tacón club. The team is determined to craft their legacy, aiming for not just participation but triumph on the continental stage.
Both teams recognize the gravity of the occasion. A win for Real Madrid could signal their breaking free from previous limitations, whereas Arsenal seeks to reaffirm their dominance and continue their quest for another semifinal appearance. Historically, they have reached this stage seven times, winning once, and now they aim to add another chapter to their illustrious history.
Fans tuning in will witness not just the clash of clubs but the blending of ambition and skill, two teams determined to make history. The match will be available for viewing on DAZN, bringing live coverage to audiences eager for the action.
Expectations are high as the stage is set for this thrilling encounter. Whether Real Madrid can finally claim their maiden semifinal place or if Arsenal will continue their legacy of success remains to be seen—but one thing is certain: the road to the semifinals starts here, woven with dreams, determination, and fierce competition.
