Arsenal Women's defence of their UEFA Women's Champions League crown is facing a serious early-season test. Renée Slegers's squad has encountered a rocky start in the new league phase, suffering two defeats in their opening three matches.
A Stuttering Start in Europe
The campaign began with a disappointing 2-1 home loss to Lyon on matchday one. The troubles were compounded last week in a dramatic collapse away to Bayern Munich. Sandwiched between these setbacks was a vital win at Benfica, a result that has kept their hopes of progression alive.
With positions five through twelve securing a place in the play-offs, there is no need for full-scale panic. However, the dream of a top-four finish, which guarantees direct passage to the quarter-finals, is already slipping away and requires immediate attention. A major result is needed to get their campaign back on track.
A Familiar Foe in Real Madrid
The arrival of Real Madrid at the Emirates could be the catalyst Arsenal need. The memory of last season's glorious 3-0 quarter-final comeback, inspired by a brilliant performance from Alessia Russo, will surely fuel belief in the home dressing room. That victory, which overturned a 2-0 first-leg deficit, was a signature moment in their journey to ultimately lifting the trophy.
Nevertheless, that two-legged tie also serves as a warning. The fact that such a heroic comeback was even necessary highlights the quality of this Real Madrid side, and no one in the Arsenal camp will be taking anything for granted tonight.
Two Teams Seeking Form
Adding intrigue to the fixture is the fact that both teams arrive at the Emirates Stadium lacking their best form. Arsenal, who are also off the pace in the Women's Super League, followed their defeat in Munich with a frustrating goalless draw against Tottenham Hotspur.
Their Spanish opponents are also struggling. Real Madrid dropped their first Champions League points last week in a draw at home to Paris FC, before being comprehensively thrashed 4-0 by BarcelonaKick-off is at 8pm GMT.
