Vini Jr. plays today? Where to watch Real Madrid vs Arsenal in the Champions League

The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid hosts one of the most anticipated matches of the 2024/25 Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday, April 16, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. Brasília time (3:00 p.m. CET). Real Madrid and Arsenal face off in the second leg, with the Gunners holding a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg at the Emirates Stadium in London. This high-stakes encounter pits the competition’s most decorated club, with 15 titles, against an Arsenal side aiming to cement their resurgence in European football. To advance directly to the semi-finals, Real Madrid must win by four goals, or by three to force extra time. The match will be streamed live exclusively on the MAX platform, with real-time updates available on social media, particularly on X, where fans and journalists track every moment.

Arsenal’s emphatic first-leg victory showcased their dominance, with two free-kick goals from Declan Rice and one from Mikel Merino. The result not only gave the Gunners a significant advantage but also boosted the confidence of a team that hasn’t reached the Champions League semi-finals since 2009. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, faces the biggest test of his career, balancing a solid defensive strategy with counter-attacking threats led by Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. Meanwhile, Real Madrid, under Carlo Ancelotti, rely on the flair of Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Jr. to overturn the deficit. Despite the odds, the Bernabéu is renowned for hosting miraculous comebacks, such as the 2022 turnaround against Manchester City, keeping hope alive for the home fans.

This clash transcends the fight for a semi-final spot. For Arsenal, it’s a chance to assert dominance over a European giant, while Real Madrid aim to uphold their continental supremacy. Historically, the Gunners hold the edge, remaining unbeaten against Real Madrid in official competitions, with two wins and a draw in three Champions League encounters. The most memorable was in 2006, when Thierry Henry scored the decisive 1-0 goal at the Bernabéu, knocking out Real Madrid in the round of 16. Expectations are high for a tactical battle, with Arsenal aiming to control the tempo and Real Madrid pressing relentlessly from the opening whistle.

How to watch the match live

The Real Madrid vs. Arsenal match will be broadcast exclusively on the MAX streaming platform, which holds the Champions League rights in Brazil. No open or cable TV options are available, making streaming the only way to watch live with visuals. MAX has invested heavily in sports coverage, offering high-definition quality and an immersive experience for fans. To avoid issues due to high demand, viewers are advised to log in early and ensure a stable internet connection. Additionally, social media platforms like X provide real-time updates, with journalists, fans, and sports accounts sharing highlights, analysis, and reactions.

Sports apps and websites also offer minute-by-minute coverage, including stats and commentary. The shift to digital platforms reflects a global trend in sports consumption, with services like MAX gaining traction in Brazil. For fans, the viewing experience will be enhanced by high-quality streaming and the ability to engage online.

• Log into the MAX platform at least 15 minutes early to avoid technical issues.
• Check your internet connection for uninterrupted streaming.
• Follow sports accounts on X for live updates and insights.
• Set up a comfortable viewing space for friends or family.

Real Madrid’s monumental challenge

Overturning a 3-0 deficit is a daunting task, but Real Madrid’s history of Champions League heroics fuels optimism among fans. In 2022, the club staged stunning comebacks against Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City, driven by the electric atmosphere at the Bernabéu. This time, they need a four-goal victory to advance outright or a three-goal win to push the tie to extra time. Carlo Ancelotti, a four-time Champions League-winning coach, plans an all-out attacking approach, with Mbappé, Vinicius Jr., and Rodrygo spearheading the offense.

However, Real Madrid’s recent form is concerning. In their last five matches, they secured only two wins, against Leganés (3-2) and Alavés (1-0), but suffered losses to Real Sociedad (3-4), Valencia (1-2), and Arsenal (0-3). Mbappé’s red card against Alavés drew criticism, but the Frenchman, with 33 goals in 49 games this season, is confirmed to play and remains the team’s primary goal-scoring hope. Injuries to Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy, and Andriy Lunin, along with Eduardo Camavinga’s suspension, complicate Ancelotti’s plans.

Real Madrid’s likely lineup includes Courtois; Valverde, Asencio, Rüdiger, Alaba; Tchouaméni, Modric, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Mbappé, Vinicius Jr. Federico Valverde’s improvisation at right-back will be tested against Bukayo Saka, while Tchouaméni, back from suspension, aims to bolster the midfield. The Bernabéu crowd, known for turning the stadium into a cauldron, will play a pivotal role in pressuring Arsenal from the start.

Arsenal’s strong season

Arsenal arrive at the Bernabéu brimming with confidence after their first-leg thrashing. The 3-0 scoreline, powered by Declan Rice’s two free-kicks and Mikel Merino’s strike, marked one of their finest performances of the 2024/25 season. Mikel Arteta, who called this tie the greatest challenge of his career, is expected to deploy a balanced approach, prioritizing defensive solidity while exploiting the speed of Saka and Martinelli on the counter. Arsenal’s defense, conceding just six goals in the Champions League, is the second-best in the competition, trailing only Bayern Munich.

In their last five games, Arsenal have shown consistency, with wins over Chelsea (2-0), Fulham (3-1), and Real Madrid (3-0), alongside draws against Everton (0-0) and Brentford (1-1). The draw against Brentford in the latest Premier League round was a minor setback but didn’t derail their preparation for Madrid. Injuries to Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Gabriel Magalhães, Riccardo Calafiori, and Jorginho force Arteta to adapt, but the core starting XI remains robust.

Arsenal’s probable lineup is: David Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Ødegaard; Saka, Merino, Martinelli. Declan Rice, a standout in the first leg, will be crucial in midfield, while Saka, recently recovered from injury, is the key attacking threat. Arsenal’s ability to hold firm away from home, as seen in their 7-1 rout of PSV in the previous round, gives them confidence to withstand the Bernabéu pressure.

Historical edge for the Gunners

The head-to-head record between Real Madrid and Arsenal is brief but favors the English side. In three official Champions League meetings, Arsenal have two wins and a draw, remaining unbeaten against Real Madrid. The most iconic clash came in 2006, when Thierry Henry’s solitary goal secured a 1-0 victory at the Bernabéu, eliminating Real Madrid in the round of 16. This season’s first-leg 3-0 win further solidified Arsenal’s dominance over the Spanish giants.

Beyond official matches, a 2019 friendly ended in a 2-2 draw, highlighting competitiveness in non-official encounters. Real Madrid’s failure to beat Arsenal in competitive fixtures adds psychological weight to the match. For the hosts, breaking this jinx is vital to keeping their European title hopes alive.

• 08/04/2025: Arsenal 3-0 Real Madrid (Champions League).
• 23/07/2019: Real Madrid 2-2 Arsenal (Friendly).
• 08/03/2006: Arsenal 0-0 Real Madrid (Champions League).
• 21/02/2006: Real Madrid 0-1 Arsenal (Champions League).

Tactical battle ahead

Tactically, Real Madrid are likely to adopt an aggressive stance from the outset, aiming to score early to unsettle Arsenal and ignite the crowd. Ancelotti may opt for a three-forward system, with Tchouaméni as the lone defensive midfielder to shield the backline. Luka Modric’s inclusion in midfield adds passing quality, but Camavinga’s absence could limit defensive intensity. Valverde’s makeshift role at right-back is a potential weakness, especially against Saka’s pace.

Arsenal, conversely, will focus on defensive compactness, keeping tight lines to thwart Real Madrid’s attacks. Arteta, a proponent of structured football, will instruct his players to exploit quick transitions, with Saka and Martinelli targeting gaps left by the hosts’ high press. The midfield duo of Rice and Thomas Partey will be tasked with neutralizing Jude Bellingham and Modric. The midfield battle, pitting Rice and Ødegaard against Bellingham and Modric, is set to be a highlight.

Arsenal’s ability to retain possession and avoid defensive errors will be critical. In the first leg, they excelled at set pieces, with Rice scoring twice from free-kicks. This strength could be key again, particularly against Real Madrid’s makeshift defense. The hosts, meanwhile, will lean on the individual brilliance of Mbappé and Vinicius Jr., with Bellingham linking midfield and attack.

Players to watch

Certain players could tip the scales at the Bernabéu. For Real Madrid, Kylian Mbappé is the focal point. Despite his red card against Alavés, the Frenchman has 33 goals in 49 games this season and a strong record against English sides, with 10 goals in 16 Champions League matches. Vinicius Jr., with his dribbling flair, is another game-changer, especially against Arsenal’s adjusted defense.

For Arsenal, Bukayo Saka is the primary attacking threat. Fresh off injury, the Englishman was pivotal in the first leg, winning free-kicks and creating chances. Declan Rice, beyond his defensive solidity, showcased set-piece prowess by scoring his first career free-kick goals against Real Madrid. Martin Ødegaard, facing his former club, will aim to dictate the game’s tempo and limit Real Madrid’s possession.

• Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid): 33 goals this season, thrives in big matches.
• Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid): Dribbling skills to unlock defenses.
• Bukayo Saka (Arsenal): Speed and precision on the counter.
• Declan Rice (Arsenal): Defensive anchor with set-piece threat.

The Bernabéu factor

The Santiago Bernabéu, with a capacity of 81,000, is one of football’s grandest stages. Recently renovated, it blends tradition with cutting-edge technology, creating an unparalleled atmosphere for Champions League nights. For Arsenal, playing at the Bernabéu is a test of composure, particularly for young talents like Myles Lewis-Skelly and Gabriel Martinelli.

The stadium has witnessed iconic Real Madrid comebacks, such as the 2022 semi-final against Manchester City, where Rodrygo’s late brace turned the tie. This memory looms large for Real Madrid fans, who hope for a similar performance against Arsenal. Yet, Arsenal have their own Bernabéu history, with the 2006 victory serving as inspiration for Arteta’s squad.

Real Madrid’s passionate supporters will make the stadium a fortress, applying relentless pressure on Arsenal, especially if the hosts score early. Arsenal’s ability to stay composed under this intensity will be crucial to protecting their lead and securing a semi-final berth.

Key statistics shaping the clash

The numbers highlight trends that could influence the outcome. Arsenal have excelled in low-scoring games, while Real Madrid need an offensive masterclass. Here are some telling stats:

• Eight of Arsenal’s last nine matches had under 3.5 goals.
• Real Madrid lost three of their last four games.
• Arsenal scored first in seven of their last eight matches.
• Kylian Mbappé has 33 goals in 49 games this season.
• Arsenal’s defense conceded just six goals in the 2024/25 Champions League.

These figures underscore Arsenal’s defensive resilience, which could frustrate Real Madrid’s attacks. However, the hosts’ attacking firepower, led by Mbappé and Vinicius Jr., could shift the narrative if they find early rhythm. Arsenal’s set-piece efficiency, evident in the first leg, remains a potential trump card.

Champions League 2024/25 schedule

The Champions League quarter-finals are nearing their climax, with second-leg matches determining the semi-finalists. The Real Madrid vs. Arsenal tie is one of four pivotal clashes. Here’s the schedule:

• 15/04/2025: Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan (second leg).
• 16/04/2025: Real Madrid vs. Arsenal (second leg).
• 16/04/2025: Barcelona vs. Borussia Dortmund (second leg).
• 16/04/2025: Aston Villa vs. Paris Saint-Germain (second leg).

The winners will advance to the semi-finals, set for April 29/30 and May 6/7. The final is scheduled for May 31, 2025, at the Allianz Arena in Munich. The victor of Real Madrid vs. Arsenal will face Barcelona, who convincingly dispatched Dortmund, in a highly anticipated semi-final showdown.

Stakes for both teams

For Real Madrid, this match is about survival in the competition. An exit in the quarter-finals would be a major blow, especially after last season’s triumph. The club, also contending for the LaLiga title, sees the Champions League as a chance to reinforce their European dominance. Even a spirited performance, if not enough to advance, could boost morale for the season’s remainder.

Arsenal view the game as a defining moment in their rebuild. Under Mikel Arteta, the club has regained competitiveness in the Premier League and Europe, but a major trophy remains elusive. Reaching the Champions League semi-finals would be a historic milestone, particularly against a titan like Real Madrid. The confidence from the first leg could be decisive for the Gunners.

The match also carries weight for the managers. Carlo Ancelotti, with his vast experience, faces pressure to keep Real Madrid at the pinnacle, while Arteta aims to solidify his status as a top-tier coach. The Bernabéu result could shape both teams’ trajectories this season.

Fascinating facts about the matchup

The Real Madrid vs. Arsenal clash is steeped in intriguing narratives. Here are some notable facts:

• Arsenal are the only English team Real Madrid have never beaten in official competitions.
• Declan Rice scored his first career free-kick goals in the first leg against Real Madrid.
• The Bernabéu hasn’t seen Real Madrid exit the Champions League quarter-finals since 2019/20.
• Mikel Arteta faced Real Madrid as a player in 2006, representing Everton.
• Kylian Mbappé has 10 goals in 16 Champions League games against English clubs.

These tidbits highlight the historical significance of the tie and the stakes of every moment at the Bernabéu. For Real Madrid, it’s about pride and legacy; for Arsenal, it’s a chance to cement their European revival.

Officiating and match conditions

The match will be refereed by French official François Letexier, experienced in high-profile Champions League fixtures. He will be assisted by Senad Ibrišimbegović and Davor Beljo, with Milos Gigović as the fourth official. In the VAR booth, Germany’s Bastian Dankert and Christian Dingert will oversee reviews. The officiating team will be under scrutiny in what promises to be a fiercely contested game with potential flashpoints.

Weather forecasts for Madrid on April 16 predict partly cloudy skies, with temperatures between 15°C and 20°C at kickoff. No rain is expected, ensuring ideal conditions for a fast, technical match on the Bernabéu’s pristine pitch. The weather should have no impact, allowing both teams to focus on tactics and execution.

Fan and analyst expectations

Anticipation for the match is sky-high among fans and pundits alike. On social media, Real Madrid supporters exude optimism, banking on the Bernabéu’s magic and the talents of Mbappé and Vinicius Jr. Arsenal fans, meanwhile, point to their team’s tactical discipline and first-leg dominance, believing qualification is within reach.

Analysts suggest Real Madrid need a blistering start, scoring early to rattle Arsenal. The Gunners’ ability to hold leads away from home, as shown in their 7-1 thrashing of PSV, is seen as a factor that could thwart Real Madrid’s plans. International media have praised Declan Rice’s first-leg performance, likening his free-kick accuracy to past legends.

Coverage on X will be lively, with fans sharing memes, insights, and reactions in real time. While not a historic rivalry, the stakes of this tie have sparked passionate online debates between Real Madrid and Arsenal supporters.

Champions League 2024/25 context

The 2024/25 Champions League is at a critical juncture, with only eight teams remaining. Alongside Real Madrid vs. Arsenal, the quarter-final ties include Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan, Barcelona vs. Borussia Dortmund, and Aston Villa vs. Paris Saint-Germain. The season has seen surprises, such as Liverpool’s ousting by PSG in the round of 16, underscoring its unpredictability.

As reigning champions, Real Madrid aim to maintain their dominance, but the first-leg loss has left them vulnerable. Arsenal, absent from the semi-finals since 2009, see this campaign as a chance to make history under Arteta. The prospect of a semi-final clash with Barcelona adds extra intrigue, with fans already looking ahead.

Semi-final outlook

The winner of Real Madrid vs. Arsenal will meet Barcelona in the semi-finals, setting up a blockbuster tie. A Spanish Clásico, if Real Madrid progress, or a clash between Arteta and his former club, if Arsenal advance, will captivate global audiences. Barcelona, who dispatched Dortmund with ease, are favorites, but both Real Madrid and Arsenal have the quality to challenge them.

The other semi-final will feature the winners of Bayern Munich vs. Inter Milan and Aston Villa vs. Paris Saint-Germain. The mix of traditional powerhouses and emerging contenders makes the 2024/25 Champions League one of the most thrilling editions in recent memory. For now, Real Madrid and Arsenal are focused on conquering the Bernabéu challenge.