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

Cristhian Mosquera Set to Strengthen Arsenal's Defense Ahead of Pre-Season Tour
Football

Cristhian Mosquera Set to Strengthen Arsenal's Defense Ahead of Pre-Season Tour

Cristhian Mosquera is set to join Arsenal's pre-season tour in Singapore, adding depth to their defense as they finalize his transfer from Valencia.

Premier League Transfer Buzz: Arsenal Targets Hugo Ekitike Amidst Intense Competition
Football

Premier League Transfer Buzz: Arsenal Targets Hugo Ekitike Amidst Intense Competition

Arsenal joins the race to sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, amidst interest from top clubs and key player movements in the Premier League.

PSG Dominates Real Madrid: A New Era in Football Begins
Football

PSG Dominates Real Madrid: A New Era in Football Begins

PSG's stunning 4-0 victory over Real Madrid marks the dawn of a new era in football, showcasing their dominance and tactical brilliance under Luis Enrique.

Ederson Reaffirms Commitment to Manchester City Amid Transfer Rumors
Football

Ederson Reaffirms Commitment to Manchester City Amid Transfer Rumors

Ederson dismisses transfer rumors, reaffirms his future at Manchester City, and discusses his contributions to the club's success.

Gabriel Vows Arsenal's Redemption: A New Era of Triumph After Title Slips
Football

Gabriel Vows Arsenal's Redemption: A New Era of Triumph After Title Slips

Gabriel Magalhaes believes Arsenal is poised for a transformative season, aiming to reclaim lost titles with strategic signings and renewed focus.

Chloe Kelly Returns to Arsenal: A New Chapter for the Gunners
Football

Chloe Kelly Returns to Arsenal: A New Chapter for the Gunners

Chloe Kelly rejoins Arsenal, aiming to bring more trophies to North London after a successful loan spell.

Former Arsenal Star Thomas Partey Faces Serious Rape Allegations: A Deep Dive into the Case
Football

Former Arsenal Star Thomas Partey Faces Serious Rape Allegations: A Deep Dive into the Case

Former Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been charged with multiple counts of rape and sexual assault, involving three women. He denies all allegations.

Transfer Drama: Lille and Rangers Clash Over Hamza Igamane's Valuation
Football

Transfer Drama: Lille and Rangers Clash Over Hamza Igamane's Valuation

Lille and Rangers are in a heated negotiation over the transfer of Hamza Igamane, with a £4m gap in valuation. Meanwhile, other clubs are making moves in the transfer market.

Arsenal Secures Kepa Arrizabalaga in a £5m Deal from Chelsea
Football

Arsenal Secures Kepa Arrizabalaga in a £5m Deal from Chelsea

Arsenal has signed goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea for £5m, adding depth to their squad for the upcoming season.

Arda Guler: The Rising Star Poised to Succeed Modric at Real Madrid
Football

Arda Guler: The Rising Star Poised to Succeed Modric at Real Madrid

Explore how Arda Guler, nicknamed 'the Turkish Messi', is emerging as the heir to Luka Modric at Real Madrid under new coach Xabi Alonso.

Arsenal's Strategic Move: Pursuing Viktor Gyokeres to Bolster Attack
Football

Arsenal's Strategic Move: Pursuing Viktor Gyokeres to Bolster Attack

Arsenal is actively negotiating to secure Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon, aiming to strengthen their attacking lineup for the upcoming season.

Arsenal's Strategic Move: Pursuing Chelsea's Rising Star Noni Madueke
Football

Arsenal's Strategic Move: Pursuing Chelsea's Rising Star Noni Madueke

Arsenal intensifies its squad enhancement by formally approaching Chelsea for winger Noni Madueke, aiming to bolster their attacking lineup.

West Ham Stands Firm: Tottenham's £50m Bid for Mohammed Kudus Rejected
Football

West Ham Stands Firm: Tottenham's £50m Bid for Mohammed Kudus Rejected

West Ham rejects Tottenham's £50m bid for Mohammed Kudus, prioritizing a move to a Champions League club.

Angel Gomes Moves to Marseille: A New Chapter for the England Midfielder
Football

Angel Gomes Moves to Marseille: A New Chapter for the England Midfielder

England midfielder Angel Gomes joins Marseille, reuniting with former teammate Mason Greenwood and aiming for Champions League success.

Champions League 2026: The Journey Begins with Underdogs and Debutants
Football

Champions League 2026: The Journey Begins with Underdogs and Debutants

The 2026 Champions League kicks off with underdogs and debutants, showcasing the purest form of football competition.

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.