by SuperSportBet
Defending champions Real Madrid are the most successful club in the Uefa Champions League history after winning the coveted title for a record-extending 15 times.
But they’ve not been convincing this season, having had to beat Manchester City in the play-offs and Atletico Madrid on penalties in the last 16 to reach the quarter-final.
As such, their job is cut out for them as they’ll face a high-flying Arsenal side in the last eight, starting in the first leg on Tuesday night (9PM SA-time) at Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal’s only blemish in the continental showpiece has only been one loss as they cruised to the last eight after hammering PSV Eindhoven 9-3 on aggregate in the last 16.
Arsenal’s Last 5 UCL Games: W-W-W-W-D
Madrid’s Last 5 UCL Games: W-W-W-W-D
Arsenal:
Madrid:
Arsenal – Bukayo Saka
Saka made his long-awaited return from an injury with a goal last week. And after coming off the bench in the 1-1 draw with Everton on Saturday, he’s expected to start against Madrid.
Madrid – Kylian Mbappé
Mbappe has been Madrid’s main man this season, scoring 32 goals in 46 games. He’ll be eager to continue with his reign against EPL clubs, having scored four goals against City in the play-offs.
“Martin Ødegaard was talented at 16 when he was here at Real Madrid, same as he’s excellent now,” said Madrid’s coach Carlo Ancelotti of the Arsenal captain ahead of Tuesday’s clash.
“There was no room for him to prove his quality, so he decided to go elsewhere for the chance to play. He went to one of the best clubs in the Champions League.”
Arsenal (4-2-1-2-1): Raya; White, Saliba, Timber, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Ødegaard Saka, Martinelli, Trossard
Madrid (4-2-1-3): Courtois; Vázquez, Asencio, Rüdiger, Alaba; Valverde, Camavinga, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Mbappé, Vini Jr
*DISCLAIMER: The lineup is only a prediction and may not reflect the official team sheet, which is usually announced closer to match time.
Who will take the first leg advantage—Madrid’s pedigree or Arsenal’s firepower? Make your call and place your bets now at SuperSportBet.
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