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Arteta: Real Madrid’s Comeback History Deserves Respect, Not Fear

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said that comebacks are part of Real Madrid’s history, and the Spanish side has earned the right to believe in them.

Arteta was speaking to the media ahead of Arsenal’s second leg in their Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid.

The Gunners hold a 3–0 lead from the first leg at the Emirates Stadium last week.

Arsenal Thrash Real Madrid 3–0 in Champions League Quarterfinal First Leg Arsenal put on a stunning display at the Emirates Stadium, beating Real Madrid 3–0 in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal tie. After a quiet first half with no goals, the Gunners came alive in the second half. Declan Rice opened the scoring in the 58th minute with a brilliant free kick, curling the ball around the wall and past Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Just 12 minutes later, Rice struck again with another amazing free kick, this time from a different angle. He found the top right corner, giving Courtois no chance and doubling Arsenal’s lead. The home crowd erupted once more in the 75th minute, as Mikel Merino added a third goal to seal a dominant win for Arsenal. Strong Advantage for Second Leg The result gives Arsenal a strong three-goal advantage ahead of the return match at the Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid next week. It was a night to remember for Mikel Arteta’s side, who completely outplayed the current European champions. Real Madrid have now conceded 11 goals in their last four matches and are going through a difficult period. Arsenal, meanwhile, are still unbeaten against Real Madrid in all their meetings. Remarkably, the Spanish giants have never scored a goal against the Gunners in three matches. Declan Rice’s brilliant performance earned him the Man of the Match award, and his two goals also made Champions League history — he became the first player ever to score two direct free kicks in a knockout stage match. With confidence high and a big lead in hand, Arsenal now head to Spain looking to finish the job and reach the semi-finals.

Since the defeat in North London, the Spanish media have become more hopeful about Madrid’s chances of turning the tie around.

Arteta responded to the growing talk of a comeback by saying:
“It’s part of their history and they’ve earned the right to talk about these situations.
Our focus is on how we can give ourselves the best chance to be better than them.”

When asked if Arsenal are worried about Real Madrid’s reputation and success in the competition, Arteta replied:
“Fear? I wouldn’t use that word.
What I feel is respect and admiration for what they’ve achieved over the years.
Their history, their values – it’s amazing. A real inspiration for any coach or manager.”

The second leg promises to be a tough test for Arsenal, despite their strong lead, as Madrid are known for their fighting spirit and big European nights.

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