Arsenal seek famous result at the Santiago Bernabeu | OneFootball

Arsenal aim to finish Champions League job in Madrid

Commanding first-leg win puts Gunners in strong position

Arsenal travel to the Spanish capital with one foot already in the Champions League semi-finals following a stunning 3-0 victory over Real Madrid at the Emirates. Mikel Arteta’s side, seen as underdogs before the tie, defied expectations in the first leg through two sensational free-kicks from Declan Rice and a crucial third goal from makeshift striker Mikel Merino.

The Premier League leaders were relentless in north London, controlling proceedings with intensity and precision. Real Madrid, known for their storied comebacks in this competition, were left stunned and now require something extraordinary under the Santiago Bernabeu lights.

Despite the deficit, Madrid’s confidence remains intact. Kylian Mbappe has stated he “refuses to give up on progression”, while Jude Bellingham has reminded Arsenal that “crazy” things can happen on a Champions League night in the Spanish capital.

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All eyes on the Santiago Bernabeu

Tonight’s clash promises high drama as kick-off is scheduled for 8pm BST on Wednesday, 16 April 2025, at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid.

Supporters in the UK can watch the action live on TNT Sports, with live streaming also available to subscribers via the Discovery+ app and website.

Key team updates for both sides

Real Madrid are forced into at least one change. Eduardo Camavinga is suspended following his late red card in the first leg, and Aurelien Tchouameni is expected to step straight back in after serving a suspension of his own. Dani Ceballos is fit again and available to face the club where he once spent a loan spell, while David Alaba returns to the squad. However, Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal will remain sidelined.

Arsenal will likely be without midfield veteran Jorginho, who suffered an injury during their recent 1-1 draw with Brentford. There is, however, positive news: Thomas Partey and Ben White were both involved in full training on Tuesday and are expected to be available.

Raheem Sterling is also back in the fold after missing the first leg through suspension and could offer a valuable attacking option.

Real Madrid’s history of comebacks can’t be ignored

Few sides in football history boast the kind of pedigree Madrid possess when it comes to Champions League comebacks. The 15-time European champions have overturned daunting deficits before, including dramatic second-leg heroics against PSG and Manchester City in recent seasons.

That said, Arsenal’s defensive discipline this campaign has been among the best in Europe. Arteta’s tactical structure and their ability to manage high-pressure games suggest a collapse is far from inevitable. More importantly, the Gunners demonstrated in the first leg they can hurt Real Madrid. One away goal could all but seal progression to the final four.

With the Bernabeu set for another unforgettable night, Arsenal stand 90 minutes away from one of their greatest modern European achievements. But in Madrid, the script is never truly written until the final whistle.