Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois says the team is prepared to tackle their issues defending set pieces and counter Arsenal`s strong set-play attacks in Tuesday`s Champions League quarterfinal first leg.
After conceding their tenth goal of the season from a corner against Valencia, Real Madrid is aware of Arsenal`s set piece prowess. Arsenal has scored the second-most goals from set pieces in Europe`s top leagues since last season, highlighting their danger in these situations.
Even with Gabriel Magalhaes potentially absent, Arsenal`s Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice are known for their precise and threatening deliveries from set pieces. Courtois emphasized that Arsenal has the ability to win games solely through set pieces, and Real Madrid is taking this threat seriously.
`We practiced defending set pieces in training,` Courtois mentioned. `We know Arsenal is good at them, so we need to avoid giving away too many corners. It`s about focus and concentration. We understand the quality of our opponents and their set piece strategies. We believe we`ve prepared well to defend against them.`
`Our defensive approach involves zonal marking with some man-to-man elements. We need to anticipate where the ball will go and be aware of Arsenal`s tactics to block the goalkeeper. We must defend set pieces effectively because they can be decisive in the game.`
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti echoed this sentiment, acknowledging Arsenal`s set piece strength but also pointing out Real Madrid`s own ability to score from dead balls. He highlighted that set pieces are a crucial part of the game, alongside open play.
Ancelotti also addressed Real Madrid`s penalty situation, noting that while Vinicius missed a recent penalty, he is confident in the young player`s ability to bounce back and perform well in the upcoming match.
The Champions League quarterfinal is a significant match, pitting the most successful club in the competition, Real Madrid, against Arsenal, who are returning to this stage after a long absence. Ancelotti emphasized the importance of experience in high-pressure Champions League games, stating that it provides confidence and reduces fear for players.
