Arsenal head to the Bernabéu on Wednesday night for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final with a significant three-goal lead. But despite their advantage, Mikel Arteta’s side will be aware of Real Madrid’s capabilities of pulling off dramatic comebacks on European nights. I’m tipping Myles Lewis-Skelly to commit 1+ fouls and Kylian Mbappe to register 1+ shots on target at 1.80.
Lewis-Skelly To Foul?
Lewis-Skelly has shown a consistency in committing fouls, especially away from home. He has committed at least one foul in nine of his last 10 away matches. He’s also committed a foul in each of his last three appearances including the first leg against Real Madrid. With the hosts expected to dominate possession as they chase the game, the chances of Lewis-Skelly being pulled into a challenge or tactical foul are likely.
Adding to that, Rodrygo often draws fouls thanks to his technical ability on the ball. He was fouled twice in the first leg and he’s drawn at least one foul in nine of his last 10 La Liga matches, underlining the challenge Lewis-Skelly may face in trying to contain him.
Many Madrid Chances
Kylian Mbappe has registered at least one shot on target in 20 of his last 21 home matches, a run that includes every Champions League game at the Bernabéu. In this season’s Champions League, Mbappe has had at least one shot on target in 85% of his appearances, showing his consistency at the highest level. In the first leg against Arsenal, he had three shots, two of which were on target.
With Real Madrid needing to attack from the first whistle, it’s likely the Frenchman will be their vocal point going forward. Expect chances to come his way as Madrid push for a route back into the tie.
This clash promises to be another memorable Champions League occasion. Can Real Madrid produce yet another comeback or will Arsenal hold firm and book their place in the semi-finals?
