There could be a boost in midfield, with Dani Ceballos possibly returning from injury, and Aurelien Tchouameni is also set to return after serving a suspension
Real Madrid will be hoping for yet another Santiago Bernabeu miracle on Thursday (IST) as they look to overturn their Champions League first-leg defeat to Arsenal and secure a place in the semi-finals of the competition.
Last week, Arsenal stunned the defending champions with a commanding 3-0 victory in London. Two superb free kicks from Declan Rice and a composed finish from Mikel Merino gave the English side a significant advantage, leaving Real Madrid with a mountain to climb if they want to keep their hopes of another European title alive.
However, if there’s one team capable of pulling off dramatic comebacks on the biggest stage, it’s Real Madrid—and especially at home. The Bernabeu has witnessed several unforgettable turnarounds in recent seasons. Just last year, two late goals against Bayern Munich sent Madrid through to the final, and the year before that, Rodrygo scored twice in two minutes against Manchester City to force extra time in a tie where they were all but out.
Madrid certainly has the firepower and talent to turn things around. The presence of star forwards Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and dynamic midfielder Jude Bellingham gives the team hope. However, recent form has been a concern. Aside from the loss to Arsenal, Madrid were unconvincing in their narrow 1-0 win away to struggling Alaves on Saturday and lost 2-1 at home to Valencia the weekend before.
There could be a boost in midfield, with Dani Ceballos possibly returning from injury, and Aurelien Tchouameni is also set to return after serving a suspension. Coach Carlo Ancelotti is likely to make key changes to his lineup, with Fran Garcia expected to start at left-back after David Alaba struggled to contain Bukayo Saka in the first leg. Lucas Vazquez will probably feature at right-back, freeing Fede Valverde to add energy in midfield, likely in place of veteran Luka Modric.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are dealing with their own injury setbacks following a 1-1 draw with Brentford. Thomas Partey picked up a knock and is doubtful, while Jorginho is also uncertain after taking a hard hit to the ribs. Long-term absentees include Gabriel, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus.
While Arsenal remain the favorites to advance, coach Mikel Arteta is well aware that an early Madrid goal at the Bernabeu could reignite belief and momentum. On a night that promises drama, Arsenal will need nerves of steel to withstand the pressure.
