Real Madrid finds itself in an unfamiliar position as it prepares for the second leg of its Champions League quarter-final tie against Arsenal, needing several goals to advance.
The Spanish giants suffered a shocking 3-0 defeat to Arsenal last week, marking one of the most significant losses in their storied history in the tournament.
As the action shifts back to the Bernabéu, Los Blancos must score at least three times to level the tie against the Premier League side.
Historically, Real Madrid has struggled against Arsenal, with the teams meeting three times in total.
Arsenal holds the upper hand with two victories and one draw, while Real Madrid has yet to win against them.
In terms of team news, Real Madrid is dealing with several injuries.
Goalkeeper Andriy Lunin is doubtful due to a muscle issue, while Ferland Mendy and Dani Carvajal are sidelined with hamstring and ACL injuries, respectively.
Edmilson Militao is also out with an ACL injury. Fortunately for Real, there are no suspensions to contend with.
Arsenal, on the other hand, is facing its own injury challenges. Ben White, Jorginho, Gabriel, and Kai Havertz are all doubtful with various knocks, while Gabriel Jesus, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Calafiori are confirmed absentees due to more serious injuries.
Ahead of the match, both managers shared their thoughts. Carlo Ancelotti of Real Madrid emphasized the need for intensity and control, stating, “We’ll try to play with a lot of intensity, trying to press and be more in control than we were in the first leg. No magic, because magic doesn’t exist.”
Mikel Arteta of Arsenal reaffirmed his team’s preparation, saying, “It’s the same as we did in London.
Our preparation for the game has been about the things that we have to do, the things that we have to dominate throughout the game, in different phases to give us the best possible chance to win.”
As the second leg approaches, Real Madrid will be compelled to open up their play in an attempt to overcome the significant deficit, which could provide Arsenal with opportunities to score as well.
