Match Report: Real Madrid Femenino 2-0 Arsenal

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Arsenal suffered a defeat at the hands of Real Madrid in the first leg of the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-finals.

Real Madrid Femenino defeated Arsenal 2-0 in the first leg of the UEFA Women’s Champions League quarterfinals at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stéfano. The match, played under challenging weather conditions, showcased the Spanish side’s resilience and tactical discipline.

The game began with both teams struggling to adapt to the waterlogged pitch, which hampered free-flowing football. Real Madrid, however, found their rhythm first. In the 22nd minute, Linda Caicedo capitalized on a defensive lapse by Arsenal, breaking through to slot the ball past goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger. This goal gave the hosts a crucial early lead and set the tone for the rest of the match.

Arsenal, despite their efforts, found it difficult to penetrate Real Madrid’s well-organized defense. Beth Mead came close to equalizing just before halftime, but her shot narrowly missed the target.

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The Gunners made tactical changes at halftime, introducing Chloe Kelly and Caitlin Foord to inject energy into their attack. Arsenal dominated possession in the second half, creating several opportunities and earning multiple set pieces. However, Real Madrid’s goalkeeper, Misa Rodríguez, was in inspired form, making crucial saves to deny the visitors.

As Arsenal pushed for an equalizer, Real Madrid struck again on the counter-attack. Substitute Athenea del Castillo sealed the victory in the 81st minute with a clinical finish, leaving Arsenal with a mountain to climb in the return leg.

This result puts Real Madrid in a strong position heading into the second leg at Arsenal Stadium. The Gunners will need a spirited performance to overturn the deficit and keep their Champions League dreams alive.

The stage is set for an exciting second leg, where Arsenal will look to harness the support of their home crowd to stage a comeback.