Real Madrid vs. Arsenal: Champions League Second Leg Preview

After a dominant 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg, Arsenal must remain focused as they travel to Madrid for the second leg. Despite the significant deficit, Carlo Ancelotti`s Real Madrid, even without Eduardo Camavinga, are expected to mount a comeback. The Champions League is known for its dramatic turnarounds.

Real Madrid only managed three shots on target in the first leg, while Declan Rice scored two impressive free kicks. The Spanish team faces a considerable challenge. However, entering the match with fear would be detrimental. Many believe Madrid might struggle to overcome Arsenal`s strong defense, especially considering Madrid`s recent form – failing to win three of their last five matches and losing ground in La Liga and the Champions League race. But as they say, that`s why the games are played. Changes in lineup are expected for Madrid as they seek to reverse their recent misfortunes.

Key storylines and match details are outlined below:

How to Watch Real Madrid vs. Arsenal, and Match Odds

• Date: Wednesday, April 16
• Location: Estadio Santiago Bernabeu — Madrid, Spain
• Live stream: Paramount+
• Odds: Real Madrid -140; Draw +300; Arsenal +340

First Leg Summary

Real Madrid had early opportunities against Arsenal in the first leg, but the momentum shifted dramatically when Rice scored a superb free kick. Arsenal`s defense effectively contained Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, limiting their clear chances. Rice then added another spectacular free kick, and Mikel Merino further extended Arsenal`s lead. Camavinga`s red card means Real Madrid will be without him for this second leg, adding to the pressure to make changes after the first leg defeat.

Top Bets

Kylian Mbappe to have 3+ shots on target (+110): This game is crucial for Mbappe`s legacy. Real Madrid will aim to give their all, and Mbappe will be central to their efforts. He was brought in to elevate Real Madrid in Europe, but integrating him into the attack has been challenging. For Madrid to win, Mbappe needs a standout performance.

What`s at Stake

Legacy Defining Match. Arsenal are seeking their first Champions League title and are on the verge of overcoming Real Madrid, a historically dominant team in the competition. For Arsenal, who have been close to Premier League success under Mikel Arteta, this is a significant opportunity to demonstrate their return to the top of European football. A victory against Real Madrid could position Arsenal as a favorite for the title, even with Paris Saint-Germain potentially awaiting in the next round. For Real Madrid and Ancelotti, with speculation surrounding his future, winning consecutive Champions League titles would be the ultimate achievement, solidifying his legacy. It`s a difficult task, but Real Madrid has the pedigree to achieve it.

Predicted Lineups

Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois, Lucas Vazquez, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, Francisco Garcia, Aurelien Tchouameni, Fede Valverde, Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe

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

Player to Watch

Jakub Kiwior, Arsenal: Gabriel`s injury raised concerns about Arsenal`s defense, but Arteta`s preparations ensured a seamless transition. Kiwior stepped into central defense and performed impressively in the first leg. Repeating that performance at the Santiago Bernabeu is a different challenge. Kiwior`s ability to replicate his first-leg form will be crucial for Arsenal`s progression.

Key Match Storyline

Who Scores First? The first goal is paramount in this match. An early Real Madrid goal could instill doubt in Arsenal, while an Arsenal goal would make Real Madrid`s task of overcoming a four-goal deficit even more daunting. While Champions League comebacks from three goals down have happened, a four-goal comeback would be unprecedented. Arsenal should be confident that a single goal could be enough, requiring Real Madrid to score four just to force extra time.

Match Prediction

Real Madrid, led by Mbappe, will pressure Arsenal, but scoring three goals against this Arsenal side is a significant challenge. Arsenal have not conceded three goals in any game this season. Real Madrid`s recent defensive record makes a clean sheet unlikely, meaning they would likely need four goals to even reach extra time. Arsenal have been known to falter in high-pressure situations, but this season feels different. With Saka and Odegaard fit, Arsenal are a formidable team, and they are predicted to advance past Real Madrid despite a potential away defeat. Prediction: Real Madrid 2, Arsenal 1

Champions League Quarterfinals Schedule

All times U.S./Eastern