Arsenal and Real Madrid face off in a blockbuster UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners host the 15-time champions in one of the most highly anticipated ties of the season, with both sides eyeing a crucial advantage before the return leg in Spain.
Mikel Arteta’s side, chasing their first Champions League title, have shown impressive home form in Europe and will hope to use that to their advantage. Meanwhile, Real Madrid, seasoned veterans at this stage of the competition, bring their usual confidence and resilience, especially under the calm guidance of Carlo Ancelotti.
Arsenal come into this tie on the back of a mixed domestic run but remain unbeaten in seven matches across all competitions. Real Madrid, however, are slightly bruised from recent domestic stumbles and will be eager to make a statement in North London.
Arsenal Overview
Arsenal stormed into the quarter-finals with a ruthless 9-3 aggregate win over PSV Eindhoven. Their European form has been solid, particularly at home, where they are unbeaten in their last 10 Champions League matches at the Emirates.
Arteta has built a disciplined and tactically sound unit, but recent attacking struggles in domestic games could raise concern. However, the return of Bukayo Saka and the presence of creative midfielders like Odegaard offer hope of unlocking Madrid’s backline.
Real Madrid Overview
Real Madrid edged past Atletico Madrid in the last round via penalties, showing once again their ability to dig deep in high-pressure situations.
Despite a recent La Liga defeat to Valencia and a leaky performance in the Copa del Rey, their European pedigree is unmatched.
With stars like Mbappe, Bellingham, and Vinicius Jr. in their ranks, Madrid’s threat is undeniable. Ancelotti’s men know how to manage two-legged ties and will aim to at least grab a crucial away goal.
Team News
Arsenal
The Gunners will be without Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Gabriel Magalhaes due to injury.
However, Bukayo Saka is fit again and expected to start, while Mikel Merino should also be available despite a head injury scare. Thomas Partey, Jurrien Timber, and Martinelli are also set to return to the XI.
Real Madrid
Madrid are missing key defensive names in Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, and Ferland Mendy. Aurelien Tchouameni is suspended, while Andriy Lunin and Dani Ceballos are out injured.
Fortunately, Thibaut Courtois is fit to start, and the likes of Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and Bellingham are all available after avoiding suspension.
Predicted Line-ups
Arsenal (4-3-3):
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Merino, Martinelli
Real Madrid (4-2-3-1):
Courtois; Vazquez, Asencio, Rudiger, Alaba; Valverde, Camavinga; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr; Mbappe
