Champions League: Real Madrid vs. Arsenal Picks — Los Blancos to Show Powers of Recovery? (Apr 16)

Real Madrid have been no strangers to comebacks in the Champions League, but the odds will be stacked against them ahead of their second leg against Arsenal on April 16, 2025.

The Gunners produced one of their greatest ever European performances in the first leg, stunning Los Blancos to claim a 3-0 win in North London.

Declan Rice scored two excellent free-kicks, but Real Madrid aren’t a side that are likely to go out of their favorite competition without a fight.

Odds

Gunners Hold Dominant Record

Arsenal are one of the few sides in European soccer that boast an excellent record against Real Madrid.

The Gunners are unbeaten in five previous matches against Los Blancos, and they have avoided defeat in each of the three Champions League matches between the teams.

Real Madrid vs. Arsenal Key Stats

• Real Madrid’s 3-0 loss in the first leg was their joint-heaviest defeat in a first leg of a knockout tie in the Champions League.
• Los Blancos have suffered five defeats in the competition this season; their most since 2000-01.
• Arsenal became the 12th English team to win a first leg by three or more goals; each of the last eleven have progressed.

Real Madrid Team News

Eduardo Camavinga will be suspended for the return leg after being sent off at the Emirates. Ferland Mendy could be recalled. Meanwhile, Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao both remain out.

Possible Lineup

T. Courtois (GK); F. Valverde, R. Asencio, A. Rudiger, F. Mendy, Rodrygo, A. Tchouameni, J. Bellingham, L. Vazquez, K. Mbappe, Vinicius Jr

Arsenal Team News

Bukayo Saka should be fit enough to feature on Wednesday. However, Jurrien Timber is a slight concern. Gabriel is out, while Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are long-term issues.

Possible Lineup

D. Raya (GK); B. White, W. Saliba. J. Kiwior, M. Lewis-Skelly, T. Partey, D. Rice, M. Odegaard, B. Saka, M. Merino, L. Trossard

Real Madrid vs. Arsenal Picks

Arsenal’s excellent win in the first leg gives them a major advantage that they will be able to defend in Madrid.

However, Los Blancos always perform when the lights shine the brightest, and an early goal could show the vulnerabilities that remain in Mikel Arteta’s side. For that reason, we will be siding with Real Madrid to progress.