2025 Champions League Q'Finals 2^nd Leg Preview - Real Madrid vs. Arsenal: Can Los Blancos dodge the Gunners at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu? April 16, 2025 by Marc Jerbs

The second leg of the 2025 Champions League quarter-final between Real Madrid and Arsenal is set to deliver a captivating showdown on April 16 at 8:00 PM BST, taking place at the iconic Estadio Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid. With Arsenal holding a commanding 3-0 aggregate lead after a dominant first-leg performance, Real Madrid faces a monumental challenge in front of their home crowd to keep their European dreams alive.

Arsenal stunned the defending champions in the opening leg with a 3-0 victory, courtesy of two sublime free-kick goals from Declan Rice and a clinical strike by Mikel Merino. Overcoming a three-goal deficit in the Champions League is a rarity, adding layers of drama and uncertainty to this high-stakes fixture. While Real Madrid is a club steeped in history and resilience, they've yet to mount such a comeback this season—casting doubt on their chances despite the advantage of playing at home.

Real Madrid vs. Arsenal Sports Bet Odds

Los Blancos are the favorites to win the game. Here are our latest odds:

• Los Blancos are favored by 1 point, with a full-time result of 1.72.
• The Gunners are the underdogs by 1 point, with a full-time result of 4.33.
• Draw has a full-time result of 4.20.
• Total Goals is set at 2.5 points, with the Under at 2.50 and the Over at 1.53.

Both sides are expected to field strategic lineups tailored to their contrasting objectives: Arsenal to defend their lead and control the tempo, Real Madrid to unleash a full-throttle assault. Madrid's frontline—featuring Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and a reportedly fit-again Kylian Mbappé—will be tasked with breaking down Arsenal's structured defense. However, their backline is severely depleted, with injuries sidelining Ferland Mendy, Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, and goalkeeper Andriy Lunin. Raul Asencio is expected to step in at center-back, supported by veterans Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba.

Arsenal, meanwhile, will likely focus on midfield dominance with a double pivot of Thomas Partey and Declan Rice, designed to disrupt Madrid's creativity and transition play. In attack, Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard will look to exploit Madrid's weakened defense. The Gunners enter this clash full of confidence, riding an unbeaten streak in recent meetings with Los Blancos and enjoying strong odds of progression in most statistical projections.

Madrid's task is daunting—not only because of the scoreline, but also due to ongoing issues with squad depth and form. They've recorded the lowest distance covered among the remaining quarter-finalists and have struggled with chance conversion. Still, as Jude Bellingham put it, "this is a night made for Real Madrid" — a nod to the club's famed ability to produce magic under the Bernabeu lights when it matters most.

For Arsenal, the key will be composure and game management. Their chances are further boosted by the return of Raheem Sterling, offering additional pace and creativity in attack. However, there are lingering concerns around the fitness of Ben White, Thomas Partey, and Jorginho, which could limit rotation options. Maintaining tactical discipline and absorbing pressure will be essential to withstanding Madrid's anticipated surge.

This second-leg encounter presents a classic Champions League narrative: Arsenal seeking to cement their semi-final place with poise and precision, while Real Madrid hunts for a legendary comeback against the odds. Although the momentum favors Arsenal, the unpredictability of knockout football — and the mystique of the Bernabeu — ensures that nothing is guaranteed in what promises to be a thrilling European night.