On April 17, 2025, Real Madrid and Arsenal will play the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal match at the Santiago Bernabéu. Despite Arsenal's dominant 3-0 lead from the first leg, Real Madrid's legendary comebacks keep the match going.

Chasing Another Historic Comeback

Real Madrid must overcome a three-goal deficit, which is a difficult challenge. Jude Bellingham notes that "remontada" has been the phrase in the locker room this week, indicating that the team is inspired by previous remontadas. However, due to injury, they will be missing numerous important defenders as well as Eduardo Camavinga (suspended).

It is anticipated that Carlo Ancelotti will start the "Fantastic Four" in his attacking lineup: Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Jr., and Kylian Mbappé. With 33 goals this season, Mbappé is still a key player despite a current goal drought.

Maintaining Composure Under Pressure

The goal for Arsenal is to make it to their first Champions League semifinal in sixteen years. An aggressive strategy is emphasized by manager Mikel Arteta, who exhorts his squad to play to win rather than maintain the lead. Important players like Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka will be essential for preserving authority and generating possibilities.

William Saliba and Jakub Kiwior will be the Gunners' defensive mainstays as they try to limit Madrid's offensive threats. Gabriel Martinelli's speed could be used to take advantage of counterspace, particularly when Madrid's defense is improvised.

Betting Odds & Predictions

Real Madrid win: 1.73 to 1.77

Draw: 4.00 to 4.10

Arsenal win: 4.10 to 4.20

Arsenal is the favorite to advance despite the odds because of their first-leg advantage. Given both clubs' defensive prowess, a low-scoring draw like 1-1 is a likely result.

Although Real Madrid's past indicates they should never be written off, Arsenal is well-positioned to advance thanks to their current play and first-leg lead. It appears likely that there will be a 1-1 draw, which would send Arsenal to the semi-finals.