The stage is set for an exciting showdown in women’s football as Arsenal Women prepare to face off against Real Madrid in the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-finals. This thrilling match will take place at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, promising to be a momentous occasion for both teams and their fans. Kicking off at 5:45 PM UK time, this match marks the first-ever meeting between the two clubs, adding to the anticipation surrounding the event.
The first of two massive clashes in the UEFA Women’s Champions League
The match between Real Madrid and Arsenal Women is the first leg of a two-part series in the quarter-finals of the prestigious UEFA Women’s Champions League. This tournament is known for showcasing the best talents in women’s football, and with both teams eager to advance, viewers can expect a fiercely contested battle on the pitch. Each team has their eyes set on not just victory, but on history, as they compete not only for points but for a chance to advance to the next stage.
Our UWCL journey so far
Arsenal have had an impressive journey leading up to this quarter-final match. They battled through two qualifying rounds with sheer determination and made it to the group stages, ultimately finishing at the top of their group after a series of challenging matches, including a notable victory against Bayern Munich. Their progression reflects strong teamwork and skill, making them a formidable opponent for Real Madrid.
Our opponents
Real Madrid, established in 2020 following a merger, has quickly become a competitive force in women’s football. The team’s talents shine brightly with stars like Caroline Weir, Linda Caicedo, Signe Bruun, and Olga Carmona, all of whom bring their unique skills and experience to the game. They finished second in their group and also have recent experience in the Champions League, having reached the quarter-finals last season, so they are no strangers to high-pressure matches.
What the managers say
Both teams come into this match with respect for one another. Arsenal’s manager, Renée Slegers, acknowledged Real Madrid’s strong collective presence on the field, emphasizing the need for her players to be at their best. Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s Alberto Toril has stated that he anticipates a tight and competitive match, stressing the importance of tactical awareness and execution from both sides. This mutual respect adds to the excitement as their teams face off.
Team news
Both clubs have some important news regarding their squads. Arsenal will be without Lotte Wubben-Moy and Daphne van Domselaar, who did not travel to Madrid, while Laia Codina has recovered from minor fitness issues and is ready to go. Bukayo Saka, a key player for Arsenal, has undergone surgery for a hamstring injury and is targeting a return for this important clash. His presence could be a significant boost for the Gunners.
Match officials
The match will be officiated by Frida Klarlund, with Fie Brunn and Daniela Gottlinger serving as assistant referees. Riem Hussein will step in as the fourth official, ensuring the game runs smoothly and fairly. This experienced team of officials will be crucial in managing the game’s flow and maintaining fairness on the pitch.
How to watch
| Match Details | Date | Kick-off Time (UK) | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real Madrid vs Arsenal | [Insert Date] | 5:45 PM | Santiago Bernabéu Stadium |
