Arsenal and Real Madrid Clash in Champions League Quarterfinal

Arsenal and Real Madrid are preparing to face each other in the Champions League for the first time in 19 years this Tuesday. Arsenal aims to recreate their historic 2006 victory. Back then, on their path to their first Champions League final, Arsene Wenger`s team defeated Real Madrid both at home and away. Thierry Henry`s goal at the Santiago Bernabeu was a landmark moment, marking the first time an English team won there and securing Arsenal`s place in the quarterfinals.

Almost two decades later, Arsenal is still considered the underdog. While they may not be at full strength, with potential absences in defense and attack, scoring goals against a team like Real Madrid, featuring players such as Kylian Mbappe, could be a significant challenge. However, Bukayo Saka is expected to play, and Arsenal`s defense has been among the strongest in the Champions League this season.

Real Madrid`s journey to this stage has been impressive, overcoming Manchester City and Atletico Madrid in previous rounds. Real Madrid has a reputation for winning even when not playing their best, and their Champions League pedigree is undeniable. Will this experience be decisive?

Viewing Information

• Date: Tuesday, April 8
• Location: Emirates Stadium — London
• Live stream: Paramount+
• Odds: Arsenal +125; Draw +220; Real Madrid +230

Last Meeting

Although these teams have never played at the Emirates Stadium, their 2006 encounter is memorable for Arsenal`s defensive resilience at Highbury, following Henry`s winning goal in Madrid. Goalkeeper Jens Lehmann made a crucial save, and Gilberto Silva made a vital tackle to deny Ronaldo. Arsenal will need a similar level of determination this time.

Road to the Quarterfinals

Real Madrid`s path to the quarterfinals has been eventful. Despite some defeats earlier in the competition, a strong performance against Manchester City in the playoffs and a dramatic penalty shootout victory against Atletico Madrid in the round of 16 demonstrated their resilience. Kylian Mbappe`s hat-trick in one of the matches highlighted their attacking power.

Arsenal`s journey to the quarterfinals has been smoother. Finishing high in their group allowed them to bypass a knockout playoff round. They then comfortably defeated PSV Eindhoven in the round of 16, with a dominant away win and a draw at home.

Predicted Lineups

Arsenal: David Raya; Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Martin Odegaard, Thomas Partey, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli

Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois; Lucas Vazquez, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba; Rodrygo, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham; Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior

Player to Watch

Vinicius Junior, Real Madrid — Despite recent criticism and questions about his partnership with Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior remains a key player for Real Madrid. His manager has expressed confidence in his ability to perform well in the upcoming match.

Storyline to Watch

Will Emirates Stadium provide a home advantage? — Arsenal has focused on creating a strong home atmosphere at Emirates Stadium. They have not lost a European match at home since February 2020. Efforts are being made to enhance the atmosphere to support the team. The manager has urged fans to create an energetic and enthusiastic environment to give the team confidence throughout the game.

Champions League Quarterfinal Schedule

Quarterfinal TV Schedule