Benitez Tips Arsenal to Progress, Still Hopes for Real Madrid Revival

Ahead of the highly anticipated UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg between Real Madrid and Arsenal, former Premier League manager Rafa Benitez has shared his thoughts on what to expect at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Arsenal heads into Wednesday night’s clash with a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg in London, and Benitez believes the Spanish giants face a steep hill to climb if they are to overturn the deficit. While acknowledging Real Madrid’s pedigree and the power of playing at home, Benitez admitted that defeating Mikel Arteta’s side will not be an easy task.

“A comeback for Real Madrid vs Arsenal will be difficult because Arsenal are strong,” he said. “Although the Bernabéu is a different story, if Arsenal score, everything becomes more complicated. But deep down, I hope Real Madrid win and qualify.”

Benitez, who had a short spell managing Real Madrid during the 2015/2016 season, knows firsthand the intensity that comes with high-stakes European nights at the Bernabéu. He remains hopeful about a turnaround but stressed that the odds are firmly stacked in Arsenal’s favour, especially given their solid defensive performance and recent form.

With Arsenal aiming to reach the semi-finals for the first time since 2009, the pressure is now on Real Madrid to produce a near-perfect performance in front of their fans. The Spanish champions will need an early goal to mount any serious comeback, while Arsenal will be looking to silence the crowd with an away goal that could seal their progression.

All eyes will be on the tactical battle between Carlo Ancelotti and Mikel Arteta, as the two sides face off in what promises to be a thrilling second leg.