Can Real Madrid Stage a Historic Comeback Against Arsenal?

Real Madrid faces a daunting task against Arsenal in the Champions League. Can they turn the tie around?

Real Madrid's 3-0 loss to Arsenal in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final was their joint-heaviest defeat in a knockout tie. Jude Bellingham, however, remains optimistic, stating, "One place where crazy things happen is our house." The second leg is set for April 16 at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Madrid has a history of dramatic comebacks.

Historical Context

Madrid's recent history in the Champions League includes last-minute heroics against Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Manchester City. Last season, they were minutes away from losing to Bayern before scoring two late goals to advance. Three seasons ago, they needed last-gasp goals against Chelsea and Manchester City to stay in the competition.

Manager's Perspective

Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid's manager, remains hopeful despite the daunting three-goal deficit. "There is always a first time, you have to try. The comeback starts tonight," he said. Ancelotti's side has previously turned dire situations into triumphs, winning the Champions League in both campaigns.

Pundits' Views

Former England winger Andros Townsend warned Arsenal fans to "never write off Real Madrid." Ex-Arsenal defender Matthew Upson added, "Real Madrid have been in situations as dire or even worse than this before and managed to find a solution."

Arsenal's Approach

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is cautious, acknowledging the challenge ahead. "We are going to have to be even better in Madrid to go through," he said. Arsenal's 3-0 victory in the first leg was a complete performance, but they know the job is not yet done.

Upcoming Coverage

Fans can watch highlights of every Champions League game from 22:00 on Wednesday on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app. There will also be a Champions League Match of the Day on BBC One on Wednesday, from 22:40 to 00:00.

Real Madrid's quest for a historic comeback continues, and the football world watches with bated breath.

What to Read Next

Arteta Confirms Odegaard as Arsenal Captain: A Unanimous Decision
Football

Arteta Confirms Odegaard as Arsenal Captain: A Unanimous Decision

Mikel Arteta reveals Martin Odegaard was the unanimous choice for Arsenal captain, highlighting team unity and strategic vision for the upcoming season.

Cyriel Dessers Injury Update: Rangers Forward Could Return for Champions League Play-Off
Football

Cyriel Dessers Injury Update: Rangers Forward Could Return for Champions League Play-Off

Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers' injury is less severe than feared, with a potential return in the Champions League play-off against Club Brugge.

Real Madrid's New Era: Sacrificing Ego for Collective Success Under Xabi Alonso
Football

Real Madrid's New Era: Sacrificing Ego for Collective Success Under Xabi Alonso

Explore how Real Madrid's new era under Xabi Alonso emphasizes team unity over individual stardom, with insights into key players and tactical shifts.

Champions League Debutants: Pafos and Bodo/Glimt Make History in European Football
Football

Champions League Debutants: Pafos and Bodo/Glimt Make History in European Football

Pafos and Bodo/Glimt are set to make their Champions League debuts, joining Kairat in a historic season for European football.

Benjamin Sesko's Transfer Dilemma: Manchester United, Newcastle, or Staying at Leipzig?
Football

Benjamin Sesko's Transfer Dilemma: Manchester United, Newcastle, or Staying at Leipzig?

Explore Benjamin Sesko's potential transfer options as Manchester United and Newcastle United vie for the £70m-rated RB Leipzig striker.

European Clubs Eye Cyriel Dessers as Celtic Faces Fallout from Champions League Exit
Football

European Clubs Eye Cyriel Dessers as Celtic Faces Fallout from Champions League Exit

Rangers' Cyriel Dessers draws interest from European clubs, while Celtic faces scrutiny after their Champions League exit and internal challenges.

Shelbourne Embarks on a New Era Post-Duff Era: Champions League Hopes and New Leadership
Football

Shelbourne Embarks on a New Era Post-Duff Era: Champions League Hopes and New Leadership

Shelbourne FC faces a new chapter as they enter the Champions League under new management, following Damien Duff's departure, aiming to create fresh memories.

Arsenal's Injury Update: Saka and Odegaard Avoid Serious Setbacks Ahead of Crucial Matches
Football

Arsenal's Injury Update: Saka and Odegaard Avoid Serious Setbacks Ahead of Crucial Matches

Arsenal receives positive news as Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard escape long-term injuries, boosting the team's morale for upcoming fixtures.

Arsenal and Tottenham Battle for Eberechi Eze: A Premier League Transfer Showdown
Football

Arsenal and Tottenham Battle for Eberechi Eze: A Premier League Transfer Showdown

Arsenal and Tottenham are in a fierce battle to sign Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze, with both clubs ready to make significant offers before the transfer window closes.

Viktor Gyokeres: Embracing the Legacy of Arsenal's Iconic Number 14
Football

Viktor Gyokeres: Embracing the Legacy of Arsenal's Iconic Number 14

New Arsenal signing Viktor Gyokeres discusses taking the iconic number 14 shirt and his ambitions to carve out his own legacy at the club.

Arsenal's Thrilling 3-2 Victory Over Newcastle: Gyokeres Steals the Spotlight
Football

Arsenal's Thrilling 3-2 Victory Over Newcastle: Gyokeres Steals the Spotlight

Arsenal's new signing Viktor Gyokeres made a grand entrance as the Gunners secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Newcastle in a pre-season friendly.

Celtic's Crucial European Journey: From Home Comfort to Kazakh Challenge
Football

Celtic's Crucial European Journey: From Home Comfort to Kazakh Challenge

Celtic faces a pivotal Champions League clash in Almaty after a strong domestic start. Can they overcome the challenges and secure their place in Europe's elite?

Brighton Secures Rising Star Rosa Kafaji on Loan from Arsenal for the Upcoming Season
Football

Brighton Secures Rising Star Rosa Kafaji on Loan from Arsenal for the Upcoming Season

Brighton has bolstered their squad by signing young Swedish forward Rosa Kafaji on a season-long loan from Arsenal, aiming to enhance their attacking options.

Chelsea's Triumph: A New Era in Premier League and Champions League Ambitions
Football

Chelsea's Triumph: A New Era in Premier League and Champions League Ambitions

Levi Colwill believes Chelsea's Club World Cup victory signals their readiness to dominate the Premier League and Champions League in the upcoming season.

Celtic's Strategic Approach to Their Challenging Kazakhstan Trip in the Champions League
Football

Celtic's Strategic Approach to Their Challenging Kazakhstan Trip in the Champions League

Exploring Celtic's preparation and strategic insights for their crucial Champions League match against Kairat Almaty in Kazakhstan.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.