Arsenal faces Real Madrid at the Emirates today in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals. Arsenal are not new to the Champions League, having participated in the UCL numerous times. However, Madrid—often known as the Champions League giants, having won 15 UCL titles—have had far more success than Arsenal, who have never won the UCL, at least not in this age or timeline.
Though Madrid have a strong Champions League pedigree and experience, this season the Spanish giants have not been at their best, having lost two El Clásicos. Their defense is known to concede goals, especially with the likes of David Alaba and Lucas Vázquez in the backline. Not just that, Real Madrid are also dealing with multiple injuries, with Fede Valverde—one of their most versatile players—struggling with fatigue. Despite Valverde’s tired state, Carlo Ancelotti has refused to rest him, throwing him into multiple games because of his importance to Madrid. The question is: Can he survive the intensity of the Arsenal clash?
Real Madrid’s shaky defense was evident recently in their game against Real Sociedad, where they conceded four goals at the Bernabéu, and also in the match against Valencia, where they allowed Valencia to secure their first away win.
Additionally, Ancelotti has refused to name a permanent penalty taker. Vinícius Júnior, who is apparently the “penalty taker,” has missed two penalties in two crucial games. According to reports, Kylian Mbappé will take any penalties against Arsenal. If he misses, Bellingham will take the next one. If Bellingham also misses, the duties will fall back to Vini. This game of "penalty tik-tak-toe" could cost Real Madrid dearly, with Ancelotti refusing to put his foot down and assign penalty responsibilities firmly. Moreover, he is playing Mbappé—who is naturally a left winger—as a striker. Though Mbappé seems to be adapting, it’s still a risky strategy.
Now, let’s move to Arsenal. The Premier League giants are known for maintaining their second-place position in the league table. In fact, last year, the Gunners bottled the league. However, this season Arsenal are also dealing with injuries of their own. Gabriel Jesus is out due to an ACL injury, Gabriel Magalhães is probably out due to a hamstring injury, and Riccardo Calafiori is possibly dealing with issues of his own. Kai Havertz is nowhere near full fitness, and Arsenal are stuck using Merino, who has adjusted to play as a false nine.
That said, Arsenal have received a major boost with the return of Bukayo Saka, who recently came back from a hamstring injury and scored seven minutes after being subbed on. However, the Real Madrid test today will determine whether Saka is truly ready for competitive action.
Moreover, Arteta may be forced to rely on Myles Lewis-Skelly, who is no doubt a good defender and offers great support offensively. However, Skelly's rough tackles—which could potentially earn him a red card—might prove to be Arsenal's downfall. The 18-year-old defender has shown to be too hot-headed and may not yet have the discipline to avoid costly mistakes.
The Arsenal vs Real Madrid clash will be one to watch at the Emirates. Don’t miss it at 8 PM UK time!
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