Real Madrid vs Arsenal Preview and U.S. Viewing Guide: Champions League 2024-25 Quarterfinal Second Leg

We’re turning our focus to a monumental UEFA Champions League 2024-25 quarterfinal second leg as Real Madrid hosts Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. Trailing 3-0 from the first leg, Real Madrid faces a daunting task to overturn the deficit, but their storied history in the competition makes the improbable seem possible at 3:00 PM EDT.

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For us, this Real Madrid vs Arsenal matchup represents a critical test of resilience and pedigree. We’re providing a detailed analysis of the tactical challenges, standout performers, and broadcast options for fans in the United States, ensuring comprehensive access to this pivotal Champions League encounter.

Match Analysis: Real Madrid’s Uphill Battle Against Arsenal’s Momentum

We’re dissecting the dynamics following Arsenal’s commanding 3-0 victory in the first leg on April 10 at the Emirates Stadium. Declan Rice stole the spotlight, scoring a stunning free-kick in the 49th minute—potentially Puskás Award-worthy—followed by goals from Bukayo Saka (63rd) and Gabriel Jesus (78th). Arsenal’s second-half surge (64% possession, 22 shots) overwhelmed Real Madrid, who managed only 6 shots despite holding firm for the first half under Carlo Ancelotti’s cautious 4-4-2.

We’re evaluating Real Madrid’s prospects at the Santiago Bernabéu, where they boast an 8-match unbeaten streak in Champions League home games (6W-2D). Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Rodrygo—who combined for 14 goals in the group stage—will lead the charge, though Aurélien Tchouaméni is doubtful (ankle). Real Madrid needs three goals to force extra time, a feat they achieved in their 5-1 aggregate win over Napoli in the 2022-23 semifinals. Their 2-1 LaLiga loss to Valencia on April 6, however, exposed defensive frailties.

Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, arrives with confidence, sitting second in the Premier League with 62 points. Their 3-1 aggregate victory over Porto in the round of 16 showcased discipline, but Jurrien Timber is out (knee), and Martin Ødegaard faces a late fitness test. The Gunners must navigate Real Madrid’s home aura, where visitors rarely escape unscathed, as evidenced by Bayern Munich’s 2-1 loss in 2023-24. We’re bracing for a match where Arsenal’s defensive solidity meets Real Madrid’s attacking desperation.

Where to Watch Real Madrid vs Arsenal in the United States

We’re outlining the broadcast details for this Champions League second leg on April 16, 2025:

Available viewing options ensure U.S. fans stay connected:

• TV Channels:
• TUDN (Spanish)
• Univision (Spanish, select markets)
• Streaming Services:
• Paramount+: English and Spanish coverage, 7-day free trial ($7.99/month after).
• ViX Premium: Spanish streaming, free trial ($6.99/month after).
• Additional Platforms: TUDN App (requires cable login or subscription).
• Time: 3:00 PM EDT (2:00 PM CDT, 1:00 PM PDT).

We verify Paramount+ as the cornerstone for Champions League streaming, with TUDN and Univision providing Spanish-language TV coverage, ideal for bilingual audiences.

Real Madrid vs Arsenal Defines Champions League Drama

We’re concluding by highlighting the weight of this April 16, 2025, fixture at the Santiago Bernabéu. Real Madrid must summon their storied resilience to challenge an Arsenal side poised for a semifinal berth against Liverpool or Inter Milan. This Champions League showdown will test whether Ancelotti’s stars can rewrite the narrative.

Here’s what you need to know about Real Madrid vs Arsenal:

1. Match Context: April 16, 2025, at Santiago Bernabéu, 3:00 PM EDT; Arsenal leads 3-0.
2. U.S. Access: Watch on TUDN, Univision, Paramount+, ViX Premium.
3. Real Madrid’s Challenge: Needs 3+ goals; Mbappé, Vinícius key.
4. Arsenal’s Edge: Rice, Saka shone in first leg; Ødegaard fitness crucial.
5. Venue History: Real Madrid unbeaten in 8 home Champions League games.

We’ll be monitoring this Champions League battle, assessing its impact on both teams’ European journeys.