Real Madrid is gearing up for a monumental challenge as they seek to overturn a daunting three-goal deficit against Arsenal in the second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals. This crucial match will take place at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2025
- Kick-off Time: 8:00 PM BST
- Venue: Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid
How to Watch
TNT Sports. Additionally, subscribers can stream the game online through the Discovery+ app and website, ensuring fans won’t miss a moment of the action.
Real Madrid’s Team News and Strategy
Head coach Carlo Ancelotti faces some significant decisions as he prepares his lineup for this must-win match. It’s anticipated that Lucas Vazquez and Fran Garcia will step in as right back and left back, respectively. Following a suspension, Aurelien Tchouameni is set to return to the midfield, likely partnering with Federico Valverde to enhance the team's pressing capabilities.
In attack, the formidable trio of Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe, and Vinicius Junior is expected to lead the front line. Rodrygo is also likely to start, although there’s a chance that either Brahim Diaz or Arda Guler could take his place based on tactical considerations.
Injury Updates:
- OUT: Dani Carvajal (ACL injury), Eder Militao (ACL injury), Ferland Mendy (muscle injury), Eduardo Camavinga (suspension).
Arsenal’s Team News and Focus
Arsenal enters the match with a well-established back four, with Jakub Kiwior likely to continue filling in for the injured Gabriel. This match is particularly significant for the Polish center back, who will be looking to make a strong impact.
In the midfield, the trio of Declan Rice, Thomas Partey, and Martin Ødegaard will aim to replicate their high-intensity performance from the first leg. On the attacking front, Bukayo Saka is expected to start on the right wing, while Gabriel Martinelli will likely occupy the left. Mikel Merino is anticipated to play as the central striker, though Leandro Trossard could be introduced as a substitute for either Martinelli or Merino, given his knack for crucial goals during counter-attacks.
Injury Updates:
- OUT: Gabriel Magalhaes (hamstring), Riccardo Calafiori (knee), Kai Havertz (hamstring), Gabriel Jesus (torn ACL – out for the season), Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee injury), Jorginho (ribs)
- QUESTIONABLE: Ben White (knock).
The stage is set for what promises to be another unforgettable Champions League night at the Santiago Bernabeu, a spectacle brimming with dramatic twists and moments of individual brilliance. Real Madrid, fueled by the fervent support of their home faithful, will undoubtedly unleash a relentless offensive onslaught on the Arsenal defense. While the pressure will undoubtedly mount on the Gunners, their disciplined structure and counter-attacking threat are likely to see them navigate this intense encounter and narrowly secure their passage to the semi-finals. The prediction leans towards a Real Madrid victory on the night, with a 3-1 scoreline, but ultimately Arsenal are tipped to advance with a 4-3 aggregate triumph.
Zainab Y.
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