Former Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has issued a stern warning to Arsenal FC ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second-leg clash against Real Madrid at the iconic Santiago Bernabeu.
Although the Gunners hold a commanding 3-0 aggregate lead, Ferdinand cautioned that Real Madrid, known for their historic European comebacks, should never be underestimated, especially on their home turf.
“I’m backing Arsenal to go through. If my life’s on the line now, I’m going with Arsenal to go through, not a problem,” Ferdinand said during a UCL match analysis.
However, he quickly added a word of caution:
“That club — Real Madrid — is a mystic club. If Arsenal go behind, it could be a different story. If Madrid score first and there’s around half an hour to play… Ah! My bum’s gonna be speaking for you lot [Gunners].”
Bernabeu Belief: Everything Is Possible
Real Madrid fans remain hopeful, confident that their side can pull off a miracle comeback — a sentiment rooted in years of stunning UCL turnarounds. But Ferdinand stressed that Arsenal must avoid conceding the first goal to maintain control of the tie.
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“If they [Arsenal] concede early, Madrid will grow into the game. That’s when things can get nervy,” he added.
Arsenal Eyes Semifinal Spot
With the likes of Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Jesus in red-hot form, Mikel Arteta’s men are confident they can score at the Bernabeu and put the tie to bed.
However, Champions League nights in Madrid have a reputation for drama, and Ferdinand believes this fixture still has the potential to deliver fireworks.
Stay tuned to Naija Blog Daily for all the latest on the Champions League, Arsenal news, and matchday highlights.
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