Arsenal and Real Madrid are set to clash in a highly anticipated UEFA Champions League quarterfinal, a crucial moment in their seasons as both teams aim for silverware. Despite entering the match with different dynamics, the stakes are high for both sides.
The first leg will be hosted at Arsenal`s Emirates Stadium on Tuesday. This home game offers Arsenal the chance to set a strong tone for this important week. While Arsenal`s Champions League performance has been consistent this season, they face pressure as this competition represents their last opportunity to secure a trophy this year. Their long wait of 19 years to reach the semifinals highlights the challenge ahead.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal`s manager, emphasizes the immense importance of this match, calling it the most significant game of his managerial career.
In a pre-match press conference, Arteta expressed his excitement and the club`s ambition to consistently compete at this level, a stage where Arsenal belongs. He reflected on the 20-year gap since such pivotal games and sees this as a chance for the team to create their own history.
Arteta faces key lineup decisions for Tuesday`s game. Bukayo Saka`s return is a timely boost, but Arsenal will miss Gabriel due to a season-ending hamstring injury. Gabriel`s absence adds to Arsenal`s list of unavailable players, including Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, who are recovering from long-term injuries sustained during the winter.
Real Madrid`s manager, Carlo Ancelotti, is tasked with balancing his talented squad. Expect prominent players like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior to feature in the lineup. Ancelotti needs to compensate for the absence of Dani Ceballos, out with a muscle issue, and Dani Carvajal, recovering from an ACL tear. Federico Valverde`s versatility will be crucial for Real Madrid, offering multiple options.
Ancelotti mentioned the uncertainty around Valverde`s position, acknowledging his ability to play centrally or on the flank, a decision he is still considering.
Predicted Lineups for Arsenal vs. Real Madrid
Arsenal: David Raya; Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Martin Odegaard, Thomas Partey, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli
Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois; Lucas Vazquez, Raul Asencio, Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba; Rodrygo, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham; Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior
Match Details: How to Watch and Odds
- Date: Tuesday, April 8
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Emirates Stadium — London
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Arsenal +125; Draw +220; Real Madrid +230
Benedict Kingsley