Real Madrid face a tough task as they host Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, needing a comeback to stay alive. It will not be easy, but we break down the key scenarios that could define this high-stakes clash.
This Wednesday, Real Madrid will host Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabeu for the second leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. The Spanish team lost the first leg 3-0, and now Carlo Ancelotti must lead a comeback. They have done it before in this competition. However, this time, many things must change if they want to advance.
Due to injuries, Ancelotti changed the formation in the first leg, but the adjustments did not work. For example, he placed Federico Valverde at right back. The Uruguayan is one of the best box-to-box midfielders in the world. But from the right side, he lost his strengths. As a result, he left too many gaps for Gabriel Martinelli and Lewis-Skelly. Both Arsenal players took full advantage and created chaos on that flank.
Lucas Vazquez could start instead, even though he has not had a great season. He has more experience in the position and may provide more balance. On the other side, David Alaba struggled and could lose his spot. That opens the door for Fran Garcia. The young fullback impressed at Rayo Vallecano, and now he could get a chance to prove himself at the Bernabeu.
Taking all this into account, Real Madrid face a huge challenge. Overcoming a three-goal deficit in the Champions League is never easy. But anything can happen when Real Madrid play at home. Let’s break down the possible scenarios for this high-stakes second leg.
What happens if Real Madrid beat Arsenal FC?
If Real Madrid want to reach the UEFA Champions League semifinals, they must produce a massive result at the Santiago Bernabeu. A simple win will not be enough. Carlo Ancelotti’s team need to win by at least a four-goal margin to stay alive. That challenge will be tough, especially with Arsenal on the other side. The Gunners have not lost a game by more than three goals since April 26, 2023. On that day, Manchester City defeated them 4–1.
Even so, Real Madrid still have hope. Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe are two of the best players in the world. To beat Arsenal, both must deliver a top-level performance. They have to click as an attacking duo. If that happens, Madrid will have a real chance to pull off the comeback.
What happens if Real Madrid and Arsenal tie?
In case Real Madrid and Arsenal draw, the Gunners will advance to the UEFA Champions League semifinals. Regardless of how many goals are scored, the English club holds a three-goal cushion from the first leg. A result like this would end their 16-year wait to return to the final four of Europe’s premier competition.
What happens if Real Madrid lose to Arsenal?
Whether Real Madrid loses the upcoming match against Arsenal, they will be eliminated from the UEFA Champions League. The goal margin will not matter in that case. If this happens, Arsenal would face Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals of the tournament. This could mark a key moment in Mikel Arteta’s career. The Spanish coach has built a serious project at Arsenal. It is a team filled with young talent capable of making a difference in the years to come.
There is also an intriguing detail. The semifinal would feature a clash between two Spanish coaches: Mikel Arteta and Luis Enrique. Both played for FC Barcelona during their careers. In Arteta’s case, he even came through the club’s youth academy.
From: bolavip.com
