UCL: 3 Real Madrid Stars Who Could Spark a Comeback Against Arsenal in Second-Leg Showdown

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Real Madrid and Arsenal are set for a blockbuster clash in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League 2024-25 quarterfinal at the Santiago Bernabéu on April 16, 2025. Arsenal enters the match with a strong 3-0 advantage from the first leg and are now just one step away from reaching their first Champions League semifinal since the 2008-09 season.

The Spanish giants, however, face an uphill task. With Eduardo Camavinga suspended and several key players like Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy, and goalkeeper Andriy Lunin out injured, Real Madrid's squad depth will be tested. They will be counting heavily on their star trio-Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham-to inspire a dramatic turnaround in front of their home fans.

Arsenal, despite being in a commanding position, are not without concerns. Injuries to Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Gabriel Magalhães, and Riccardo Calafiori could impact their setup. In addition, the fitness of Thomas Partey, Ben White, and Jorginho remains uncertain. Nevertheless, the Gunners will look to maintain composure and stay compact defensively to hold off Madrid's attacking charge.

While Real Madrid are known for dramatic comebacks in Europe, the scale of the deficit and their injury troubles may tilt the tie in Arsenal's favour. If Mikel Arteta's side can hold their nerve, they could very well book a place in the semifinals.

But who can actually turn the tide for Los Blancos? Here's a look at the 3 key men

Players To Watch Out For Real Madrid In 2nd Leg

1) Kylian Mbappe: Kylian Mbappe has made an immediate impact in his debut season with Real Madrid, emerging as the focal point of their attack. Renowned for his searing pace, quick feet, and clinical finishing, he poses a relentless challenge to opposition defenses. His attacking numbers reflect his dominance, with over 20 goals in the league and seven more in Europe across 12 Champions League appearances-highlighting both consistency and threat on the biggest stage.

2) Vinicius Junior: Vinicius Junior has been a standout performer on the wing for Real Madrid this season, using his lightning pace and nimble footwork to create consistent problems for defenders. With seven goals already in the Champions League, he's expected to be heavily involved, especially in duels against Jurrien Timber-potentially drawing Arsenal's midfield out of shape. Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham remains vital to Madrid's midfield engine, using his vision and movement to break through defensive lines. Declan Rice will be tasked with disrupting Bellingham's rhythm to limit Madrid's creative flow.

3) Jude Bellingham: Jude Bellingham will be at the heart of Real Madrid's midfield strategy. His intelligence on the ball, combined with his composure under pressure, allows him to control the tempo and link up play seamlessly. Bellingham's sharp positioning and timely passes often create gaps in tight defences. However, Arsenal's Declan Rice-his England teammate-will likely shadow him closely, aiming to cut off Madrid's supply line and disrupt their rhythm. This individual battle could prove decisive in shaping the outcome.

Real Madrid vs Arsenal Head-To-Head

Across their three European encounters to date, Arsenal have maintained an unbeaten record against Real Madrid, securing two victories and one draw. Impressively, the Gunners have yet to concede a single goal in these matchups, while netting a total of four-three of which came in the opening leg of their current Champions League quarter-final clash.

Full Squad

Arsenal: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Odegaard; Saka, Merino, Martinelli, Neto, Setford, White, Tierney, Zinchenko, Gower, Nwaneri, Butler-Oyedeji, Sterling, Trossard.

Real Madrid: Courtois, Fran González, Sergio Mestre, Alaba, Lucas V., Vallejo, Fran García, Rüdiger, Asencio, Bellingham, Valverde, Modrić, Tchouameni, Arda Güler, Ceballos, Vini Jr., Mbappé, Rodrygo, Endrick, Brahim.

Predicted XI

Real Madrid Predicted Playing XI: Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Rudiger, Alaba; Tchouameni, Modric; Rodrygo, Bellingham, Vinicius Jr; Mbappe.

Arsenal Predicted Playing XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Merino, Martinelli.