Arsenal vs. Real Madrid: Champions League Quarterfinal Match Preview

Arsenal and Real Madrid are preparing to face each other in the Champions League for the first time in 19 years this Tuesday. The Gunners aim to replicate their success from 2006, when they advanced to their first Champions League final by defeating Real Madrid both at home and away. Thierry Henry`s decisive goal at the Santiago Bernabeu not only secured a victory for the English side but also propelled them into the quarterfinals.

Almost two decades later, Arsenal is still considered the underdog. Despite potential lineup challenges, including the possible absence of key defender Gabriel Magalhaes and a senior center forward, scoring against a team like Real Madrid, especially with players like Kylian Mbappe, could be difficult. However, the return of Bukayo Saka and their strong defensive performance in this Champions League season offer hope.

Real Madrid`s journey to this stage has been more challenging. As defending champions, they overcame Manchester City in the previous rounds and Atletico Madrid in a penalty shootout in the round of 16. Real Madrid has a reputation for winning even when not playing at their best, and their rich history in the competition is undeniable. It remains to be seen if this experience will be decisive.

Viewing Information

• Date: Tuesday, April 8
• Time: 3 p.m. ET
• Location: Emirates Stadium — London
• Live stream: Paramount+
• Odds: Arsenal +125; Draw +220; Real Madrid +230

Last Meeting

Although these teams have never played at the Emirates Stadium, the 2006 match was famously decided by Henry`s goal in Madrid. However, Arsenal`s solid defense at Highbury in the return leg was equally crucial. Memorable moments include Jens Lehmann`s save against Raul and Gilberto Silva`s crucial tackle on Ronaldo. Arsenal will need a similar level of resilience this time.

Road to the Quarterfinals

Real Madrid`s path to the quarterfinals has been eventful, including defeats in the group stage which led them to the playoffs. Jude Bellingham`s performance was key in overcoming Manchester City, and Kylian Mbappe scored a hat-trick in another match. The tie against Atletico Madrid was decided by a penalty shootout, amidst controversy.

Arsenal`s journey has been smoother. They finished third in their group, progressing to the last 16 where they comfortably defeated PSV Eindhoven with a 7-1 away win and a 2-2 draw at home.

Predicted Lineups

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

Player to Watch

Vinicius Junior, Real Madrid — Despite recent criticism and questions about his partnership with Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid`s manager Carlo Ancelotti remains confident in Vinicius`s abilities and expects a strong performance in the upcoming match.

Storyline to Watch

Will the Emirates provide a home advantage? Arsenal has been focusing on making their home stadium a fortress. They haven`t lost a European game at home since February 2020. The club is encouraging fans to create a strong atmosphere to support the team and gain an advantage.

Champions League Quarterfinal Schedule

Quarterfinal TV Schedule

All times U.S./Eastern