Real Madrid faces a tough challenge in the Champions League quarter-finals after a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Arsenal in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
With a three-goal deficit to overcome in the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu, the Spanish giants’ hopes of advancing are hanging by a thread.
The team’s performance was underwhelming, particularly in the second half, as Arsenal dominated the match. Real Madrid’s inability to respond after conceding was a major concern, and this has been echoed by former player Toni Kroos. Speaking on his Einfach mal Luppen podcast, Kroos expressed disappointment at the lack of reaction from his former side.
“After it went to 2-0, it seemed that everything was lost,” said Kroos. “From my experience, when Real Madrid are losing, there’s always a phase where you feel a goal could come. After every goal I missed that reaction. They were just saying, ‘please, don’t let the fourth one come.’”
Kroos emphasized that Real Madrid must bring their best performance in the second leg at the Bernabeu, noting the importance of starting strong to put Arsenal under pressure.
“The team has to give its best. The Bernabeu crowd will be there. We have to press non-stop from the first quarter of an hour.”
Although the task ahead remains daunting, Kroos remains hopeful that Real Madrid can mount a comeback, urging the team to seize the opportunity.
Despite the heavy deficit, no one has ruled out the possibility of a turnaround. Real Madrid will need a perfect performance and a quick response in the second leg if they are to keep their Champions League dreams alive.
