Last Stand at the Bernabéu: Arsenal Eye Historic Upset as Real Madrid Chase a Miracle

UEFA Champions League - Real Madrid VS Arsenal
Match Time:17-04-2025 03:00 Thursday (GMT+8)
Football Livescore | Match Prediction & Tips
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Real Madrid faces a critical challenge in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal. After suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, the defending champions are under immense pressure to produce a dramatic comeback at the Santiago Bernabéu. With their hopes of securing a 16th European title hanging in the balance, the team is counting on their home advantage to fuel a turnaround and keep their campaign alive.
Team Analysis:
As KylianMbappe continues his search for a direct free-kick goal, Declan Rice delivered a standout performance for Arsenal with two remarkable set-piece goals in quick succession. His display, which included precision and power, caught attention even from legendary figures like Roberto Carlos. Arsenal's attacking momentum was further highlighted by Mikel Merino’s impressive finish.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s defensive vulnerabilities persist, especially at home, having conceded in their last ten European matches at the Bernabéu. This pattern could favor Arsenal, who already showed resilience by dominating the first leg despite missing key players like Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Magalhaes. Their performance strengthens their case as deserving semi-finalists, a stage they haven’t reached since 2009.
Player Situation:
Real Madrid will be without Eduardo Camavinga for the second leg against Arsenal due to suspension, following a second yellow card in the first leg. He joins long-term absentees Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal on the sidelines, while Ferland Mendy and AndriyLunin remain doubtful after missing the previous match due to injuries. On a more positive note, AurelienTchouameni returns from suspension and is likely to replace Camavinga in midfield. Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior are also expected to start after limited minutes over the weekend.
Arsenal, meanwhile, face concerns over the fitness of Jorginho, Thomas Partey, and Ben White after the Brentford game, although none of their issues are believed to be serious. Jurrien Timber is set to return to the lineup, regardless of White’s condition. Key players like Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Mikel Merino are ready to feature, with Merino holding an impressive scoring record against Madrid. However, the squad remains without Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Magalhaes, Kai Havertz, TakehiroTomiyasu, and possibly Riccardo Calafiori, all dealing with ongoing injuries.
Result Prediction:
Arsenal’s chances of progressing in the Champions League could hinge on weathering the early pressure at the Bernabéu, particularly during the opening ten minutes when the atmosphere is most intense. If they manage to keep a clean sheet during that period, it could set the tone for a successful night.
Despite Real Madrid's attacking threat, Arsenal’s solid defense is expected to be strong enough to prevent the hosts from scoring the four goals needed to win without penalties. Given Madrid's defensive frailties, a single goal from Arsenal might be enough to take control of the tie. If they succeed, Arsenal would move on to face either Paris Saint-Germain or Aston Villa in the semi-finals in Munich.
Predicted Result: Real Madrid 2-1 Arsenal
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