Real Madrid v Arsenal - Champions League

Real Madrid ML (-120)

Real Madrid hosts Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabéu tonight in the second leg of their Champions League quarterfinal. Despite trailing 3-0 on aggregate, Los Blancos are poised to leverage their home advantage and attacking prowess to secure a victory in this match.

Carlo Ancelotti is expected to field an aggressive lineup, featuring Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham in attack. With Aurélien Tchouaméni returning from suspension to bolster the midfield alongside Dani Ceballos, Real Madrid aims to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities. Defensively, Antonio Rüdiger and Raúl Asencio are set to anchor the backline, with Fede Valverde likely covering the right flank.

Arsenal enters the match with a comfortable lead but faces challenges due to injuries. Key players like Gabriel Magalhães, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus remain sidelined, while Jorginho did not travel with the squad. Thomas Partey and Ben White have been declared fit, providing some stability. Mikel Arteta is expected to deploy a lineup featuring David Raya; Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Martin Ødegaard, Partey, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Mikel Merino, and Gabriel Martinelli.

Real Madrid’s need to overturn the deficit will likely result in an aggressive approach from the outset. Their attacking quartet has the capability to challenge Arsenal’s defense, which has been resilient but may be tested under sustained pressure. While Arsenal will aim to manage the game and protect their lead, the intensity at the Bernabéu could tilt the match in favor of the hosts.

Prediction: Real Madrid 2, Arsenal 1. GL.