Key occasions
Actual Madrid have confronted 141 totally different groups in European competitors. Solely 4 are unbeaten towards them: Ipswich City, Aberdeen, Lille – and Arsenal, who beat Actual 1-0 on combination in the one earlier assembly between the perimeters. That was within the final 16 in 2005-06, when Thierry Henry’s majestic solo aim was sufficient to see off the ageing, ailing galacticos.
Preamble
Hiya and welcome to dwell protection of Arsenal v Actual Madrid on the Emirates. It’s the primary leg of a mouthmoistening quarter-final between the perfect group by no means to win the European Cup (in all probability) and the group that has gained it essentially the most (positively).
That imbalance provides this sport a barely unusual really feel – half Conflict of the Titans, half David vs Goliath. Madrid are strongish favourites to win the tie however Arsenal have greater than sufficient means to make life uncomfortable for them, notably in entrance of a feral Emirates crowd tonight.
Arsenal absolutely have to take a result in Madrid, ideally two targets or extra. They will’t afford a repeat of final yr’s quarter-final first leg, when a 2-2 draw at dwelling to Bayern Munich arrange a largely depressing evening on the Allianz Enviornment.
Had Arsenal gone by way of they might have confronted Actual Madrid within the semis. If you wish to win this trophy – their trophy – chances are high you’ll should beat them en route.
That is the last word take a look at for Arsenal, one which elicits concern but additionally pleasure and a strong sense of alternative. If Arsenal can get previous Madrid, they’ll fancy their possibilities towards anyone.
Kick off 8pm.
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