Real Madrid Aware Of Arsenal's Set-Piece Threat Ahead Of Champions League Clash

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Real Madrid are intensifying their focus on defending set-pieces ahead of their Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal, according to Thibaut Courtois. Arsenal have excelled in creating opportunities from dead-ball situations, generating 14.29 expected goals from non-penalty set-pieces in the Premier League this season. This statistic underscores the significant threat they pose in such scenarios.

Since Mikel Arteta took over as manager in December 2019, Arsenal have scored 77 goals from set-pieces, excluding penalties. This achievement places them just behind Manchester City and Liverpool, who have netted 82 and 80 goals respectively during the same period. Real Madrid's goalkeeper Courtois emphasises the importance of being prepared to counter this threat.

"We worked on it yesterday," Courtois stated, highlighting their preparation efforts. He explained that avoiding conceding corners is crucial, along with maintaining concentration and staying active. "Sometimes it's about the quality of the opponent," he added, noting that even with perfect positioning, a well-delivered ball can be challenging to defend.

Arsenal's reliance on set-pieces has increased due to injuries among key players like Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli. While Saka and Martinelli have returned to action, providing a boost for Arteta's side, they still miss Gabriel Magalhaes. The Brazilian defender is sidelined with a season-ending hamstring injury but has been a crucial figure in Arsenal's set-piece success since joining in 2020.

The last time Real Madrid faced Arsenal in the Champions League was in 2006 when Thierry Henry's solitary goal secured victory for the Gunners. Since then, Real Madrid have claimed six more Champions League titles while Arsenal are yet to win the trophy. Despite this history, Courtois expressed respect for Arsenal's current form.

"We have a lot of respect for Arsenal," Courtois said. "I have a lot of friends who are Arsenal fans. I know they've been doing great in the Premier League." He acknowledged their young team and strong defence, particularly praising their counter-attacks and set-piece prowess.

Courtois believes that Arsenal are on the right path towards winning a trophy soon given their impressive performances. As both teams prepare for their upcoming clash, Real Madrid remain focused on countering Arsenal's strengths effectively.