After a dominant 3-0 victory in the first leg against Real Madrid, Arsenal cannot afford to relax as they head to Madrid for the second leg. Carlo Ancelotti`s Real Madrid, despite the significant deficit and the absence of Eduardo Camavinga, are known for their resilience in the Champions League and will be aiming for a comeback.
In the first leg, Real Madrid only managed three shots on target, while Declan Rice scored two impressive free kicks for Arsenal. Real Madrid faces a tough challenge, and any hesitation could be decisive. James Benge suggests that Madrid`s history of comebacks might not be enough against a determined Arsenal with a strong defense. Madrid`s recent form has been inconsistent, with three losses in their last five games across all competitions, jeopardizing their La Liga and Champions League aspirations.
Here’s a look at the key storylines and match details:
How to watch Real Madrid vs. Arsenal, Odds
- Date: Wednesday, April 16
- Location: Estadio Santiago Bernabeu — Madrid, Spain
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Real Madrid -140; Draw +300; Arsenal +340
First leg recap
Real Madrid had early opportunities against Arsenal, but momentum shifted after Rice scored a fantastic free kick. Arsenal`s defense effectively contained Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, limiting their clear chances. Rice then added another goal, and Mikel Merino further extended Arsenal`s lead. Camavinga`s red card means he will miss the second leg, adding to Real Madrid`s challenges as they consider changes after the first-leg defeat.
Best bets
Kylian Mbappe to have 3+ shots on target (+110): This game is crucial for Mbappe`s legacy. Real Madrid will be pushing hard, and Mbappe will be central to their efforts. Despite his talent, integrating him into the attack has sometimes disrupted Real Madrid`s balance. For Real Madrid to win, Mbappe needs to deliver a standout performance.
What`s at stake
Legacies. Arsenal is seeking their first Champions League title and is close to overcoming Real Madrid, a powerhouse in the competition. This is a significant opportunity for Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, to prove their return to the top tier of global football. Advancing past Real Madrid could establish Arsenal as a favorite, even with Paris Saint-Germain potentially awaiting in the next round. For Real Madrid and Ancelotti, with speculation around his future, winning consecutive Champions League titles would be the ultimate achievement. 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 preparation ensured a seamless transition. Kiwior stepped into central defense and performed well in the first leg. Repeating that performance at the Santiago Bernabeu is a bigger test. Kiwior`s performance could be key to Arsenal`s progression.
Storyline to watch
Who scores the first goal? The first goal is critical in this match. An early Real Madrid goal could create pressure for Arsenal, while an Arsenal goal would make Real Madrid`s task of overcoming a four-goal deficit even harder. While Champions League comebacks from three goals down have occurred, a four-goal comeback is unprecedented. Arsenal should be confident that scoring once will be enough to secure their advancement.
Prediction
Real Madrid, led by Mbappe, will challenge Arsenal, but scoring three goals against Arsenal`s defense is a significant challenge. Arsenal has consistently maintained a strong defense this season. Real Madrid might need four goals to even force extra time. Arsenal, despite past vulnerabilities in high-pressure situations, has shown resilience this season.
With Saka and Odegaard fit, Arsenal is a formidable team and should secure a result to advance past Real Madrid, even if they lose this second leg at Madrid. Pick: Real Madrid 2, Arsenal 1
Champions League quarterfinals schedule
All times U.S./Eastern
| WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16 | HOW TO WATCH |
| UEFA Champions League Today pre-match | Paramount+, CBS Sports Golazo Network |
| The Golazo Show | Paramount+ |
| Inter vs. Bayern Munich | Paramount+ |
| Real Madrid vs. Arsenal | Paramount+ |
| UEFA Champions League Today post-match | CBS Sports Network, Paramount+ |
| The Champions Club | CBS Sports Golazo Network, YouTube |
| Scoreline | CBS Sports Golazo Network |
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