Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois affirmed the team`s readiness to address their vulnerabilities in defending set pieces, particularly as they prepare to face Arsenal`s formidable set-piece attacks in their upcoming Champions League quarterfinal first leg on Tuesday.
After conceding their tenth goal from corner kicks this season during their 2-1 defeat to Valencia, Real Madrid are acutely aware of Arsenal`s set-piece capabilities. Arsenal has impressively scored 31 league goals from set plays since the beginning of last season, a figure surpassed only by Bayer Leverkusen in Europe`s top leagues.
Despite the potential absence of Gabriel Magalhaes, a key set-piece threat for Arsenal, due to injury, the precision of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice`s deliveries remains a significant concern for Madrid. Courtois highlighted Arsenal`s ability to win matches solely through set pieces, emphasizing the need for focused defense.
Courtois mentioned that set-piece defense was a focal point in their recent training sessions. He acknowledged Arsenal`s proficiency in this area and stressed the importance of minimizing corner opportunities for the opposition. Courtois attributed set-piece vulnerabilities to lapses in concentration and the quality of opposing teams` positioning. He expressed confidence in Madrid`s preparation and their zonal and man-to-man marking strategies, along with proactive measures to counter Arsenal`s attempts to block him during set plays.
Carlo Ancelotti echoed Courtois` sentiments, acknowledging Arsenal`s set-piece strength but also highlighting Real Madrid`s own effectiveness in converting set pieces into goals. He pointed out their recent set-piece goals against Real Sociedad and Valencia, emphasizing the importance of set plays as a crucial aspect of the game, alongside open play.
Beyond set-piece defending, the Madrid press has also focused on Real Madrid`s set-piece attacking, specifically penalties. Vinicius Junior`s recent penalty miss has brought the team`s penalty-taking strategy into question. Ancelotti confirmed that the designated penalty taker role is under consideration but voiced his support for Vinicius, anticipating a strong performance from him in the upcoming match.
The first leg match on Tuesday marks a significant Champions League moment, pitting the tournament`s most successful club against Arsenal, who are striving to re-establish themselves at this level after a long absence. Ancelotti emphasized the value of experience in high-pressure Champions League matches, believing it provides players with the confidence needed to perform in such critical games.
Benedict Kingsley