Build-Up to Real Madrid vs Arsenal: Champions League Quarter-Final Second Leg

Real Madrid will once again rely on an attacking strategy without reinforcing the midfield with a fourth player. The starting XI will include Rodrygo Goes despite his recent goal drought, Lucas Vázquez and David Alaba as full-backs, and the return of Fede Valverde to the midfield.

With Aurélien Tchouaméni back after serving a suspension, the midfield is restructured alongside Valverde and Jude Bellingham. Mbappé also starts, and Ancelotti highlighted his importance: “He’s been training very well, and we need his goals. We’re not just here to defend.”

A few hours before kickoff, thousands of Real Madrid fans lined the streets around the Santiago Bernabéu to welcome the team bus, turning the usual arrival into a raucous display of support. Flares, chants of “yes we can,” and massive police presence turned a 30-second trip into a four-minute emotional journey.

The club has stoked the flames of belief in recent days by releasing videos recalling famous comebacks — such as those against PSG, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich. The message has spread across the squad. According to Jude Bellingham, “remontada” has been the most repeated word in the dressing room all week.

Inside the Bernabéu, fans will unveil a massive tifo featuring a king in Real Madrid colors moving chess pieces, symbolizing teams already taken down in past turnarounds. The only piece still standing wears red and white — representing Arsenal.

For Ancelotti and Real Madrid, the magic isn’t guaranteed on the pitch — but it certainly exists in the stands.

All the Goals