Arsenal Adjusts Lineup Ahead of Champions League Clash with Real Madrid

LONDON, England — Arsenal Football Club is gearing up for tonight’s UEFA Women’s Champions League quarter-final match against Real Madrid, with head coach Renée Slegers implementing three changes to the starting lineup that secured a victory against Everton over the weekend.

Stina Blackstenius replaces Frida Maanum in the forward position, while Beth Mead steps in for Chloe Kelly on the wing. Additionally, Arsenal captain Kim Little will be joined in midfield by Kyra Cooney-Cross as Lia Walti moves to the substitutes’ bench. Manuela Zinsberger remains the goalkeeper, as Daphne van Domselaar did not travel with the squad.

The backline consists of Emily Fox, Leah Williamson, Steph Catley, and Katie McCabe, all remaining unchanged for their fourth consecutive match.

The starting XI for Arsenal against Real Madrid includes: Zinsberger, Fox, Williamson, Catley, Mariona, Mead, Little (C), McCabe, Russo, Blackstenius, Cooney-Cross. The substitutes are: Williams, Codina, Ilestedt, Nighswonger, Reid, Walti, Pelova, Maanum, Kelly, Foord, Kafaji, Hurtig.

Arsenal enters this pivotal match on a high note after defeating Everton 3-1 in the Women’s Super League. Alessia Russo scored twice during that match, leading Arsenal to second place in the league, just eight points behind leaders Chelsea, following Manchester United’s loss to Liverpool.

Russo opened the scoring in the 24th minute, assisted by a cross from Kim Little. Although Everton equalized nine minutes before halftime through Toni Payne, Arsenal’s Caitlin Foord capitalized on a defensive mishap, leading to an own goal that restored Arsenal’s lead. Russo sealed the victory in the final minute, bringing her total to 10 goals for the season.

“We’re pleased with the performance, but there’s still work to be done as we prepare for Madrid,” said Slegers during the post-match interview. “Every match is crucial for us as we aim for both a strong finish in the league and success in the Champions League.”

This quarter-final clash against Real Madrid is considered vital as Arsenal looks to cement its place in the Champions League for the next season by finishing in the top three of the Women’s Super League.

Kick-off is set for 19:45 BST, and the match is expected to draw significant attention as both teams vie for advancement in the prestigious tournament.