Comebacks are dominating discussions in the UEFA Champions League this week, particularly for Real Madrid. The reigning champions are aiming for a significant victory to keep their Champions League journey alive this season.
After a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the first leg of the quarterfinals, Real Madrid faces a tough challenge. Despite being known as the “comeback kings” for overcoming difficult situations in recent years, Wednesday`s second leg at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium will truly test this reputation and could set the stage for an extraordinary turnaround.
The term `remontada` has become closely linked with Real Madrid since their loss in London. It`s not just because it`s Spanish for `comeback.` The situation evokes memories of past dramatic Champions League ties, and with Real Madrid`s formidable attack featuring Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, a turnaround feels possible.
Here`s what you should know about `remontada` and why it`s the central theme leading up to Real Madrid`s match against Arsenal on Wednesday.
Real Madrid vs. Arsenal Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, April 16
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain
- Live stream: Paramount+
- Odds: Real Madrid -140; Draw +300; Arsenal +340
Understanding `Remontada`
`Remontada` translates from Spanish to `comeback` or `turnaround.` It`s often used in soccer to describe significant comebacks by Spanish teams, especially those that are particularly dramatic.
The Original `La Remontada`: Barcelona vs. PSG
The most famous example of a `remontada` is Barcelona`s incredible 6-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in March 2017. PSG had won the first leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie 4-0, making the second leg at Camp Nou seem like a formality. However, Barcelona, under Luis Enrique, delivered an unforgettable performance, winning 6-1 and overcoming a 6-5 aggregate deficit to reach the quarterfinals. Neymar was the standout player that night, earning man of the match.
Real Madrid Acknowledges the `Remontada` Challenge
Real Madrid is well aware of the increasing talk of a `remontada` and has embraced the challenge for Wednesday`s crucial game.
Jude Bellingham mentioned in a pre-match press conference, `Remontada… I’ve heard it constantly this week. Social media is full of it, and the press keeps mentioning it.`
Bellingham also spoke about Real Madrid`s history of successful comebacks in recent seasons, including their Champions League title wins.
`This is the perfect occasion for Madrid. The atmosphere has been incredible lately. The first leg result was very disappointing, and now everyone anticipates a comeback. After the first game, thinking about a `remontada` is difficult as you`re focused on analyzing what went wrong. But as you discuss it and see the belief, it becomes contagious. We have past experiences to draw from. The feeling started quickly, even on the bus after the first leg, although we weren`t as confident then as we are now.`
