Real Madrid stunned Arsenal with a commanding performance to take control of their Women’s Champions League quarter-final tie. Goals in either half from Linda Caicedo and Athenea del Castillo secured victory for the Spanish side in the first leg, leaving Arsenal with work to do in the return fixture.
The result complicates Arsenal’s final push for silverware this season, though their manager remained optimistic about overturning the deficit. Expressing confidence in her squad, she emphasized that it was only “half-time” in the tie. She acknowledged that both teams fought hard, with her side controlling possession and creating more chances, but conceded that Real Madrid’s effective finishing made the difference. She suggested that better pitch conditions could allow her team to move the ball more efficiently and find more openings.
The pitch conditions proved to be a major talking point, hampering fluid football and favoring the team that adapted more quickly. The sodden and uneven turf at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stéfano made precise passing difficult. Real Madrid’s decision to continue staging their women’s matches at this venue rather than the Bernabéu, which was unused during the men’s international break, drew scrutiny.
The game opened in a scrappy manner, with neither side initially taking control. However, the home team settled quicker, their intense pressing game proving effective. Signe Bruun’s relentless work up front epitomized their approach, and she made an early statement by blocking a clearance from Steph Catley with a determined sliding tackle.
Arsenal had the first meaningful effort on goal when Stina Blackstenius forced a save, but Real Madrid were the first to capitalize. A misplaced pass in midfield was easily intercepted, and Bruun threaded a low ball forward. The uneven surface caused it to bobble off Leah Williamson’s foot and into the path of Caicedo, who confidently slotted home.
Arsenal struggled to regain control, despite substitutions aimed at injecting energy into their attack. Chloe Kelly and Caitlin Foord were introduced, and Kelly initially looked lively. Lia Wälti also threatened to make an immediate impact upon entering the game. However, Madrid remained resolute and took advantage of Arsenal’s increasingly aggressive positioning.
As Arsenal pushed forward in search of an equalizer, Madrid punished them on the break. Athenea del Castillo, coming off the bench, found space and unleashed a powerful long-range strike beyond the goalkeeper to double the lead.
Real Madrid celebrated a significant victory at the final whistle, marking only their third win in 11 matches against English opposition. The result puts them in a strong position to reach the semi-finals for the first time in their history.
For Arsenal, the challenge is now clear. They must deliver an improved performance at the Emirates Stadium in the second leg to keep their European hopes alive. The return fixture represents their final chance to rectify their mistakes and keep their Champions League journey going.
