Arsenal host Real Madrid in a highly anticipated UEFA Champions League quarter-final first-leg encounter tonight, with both sides aiming to seize the initiative in their pursuit of European glory.For Arsenal, this competition represents their last realistic chance to secure silverware this season, as Liverpool’s commanding lead in the Premier League leaves little room for a title race.Manager Mikel Arteta’s team selection in the recent 1-1 draw at Everton—where key players were rested—suggests that European success is a clear priority.Arsenal are expected to field a full-strength side, with Bukayo Saka set to return after recovering from a minor knock.Recommended For YouEntertainment2025-04-07T19:10:26+00:00Top 10 African countries making big money from musicSouth Africa led the African music industry in 2023 with $33 million in revenue, followed by Egypt and Nigeria, as streaming services fuelled a 34.7% surge in Sub-Saharan Africa’s music economy—highlighting both opportunities and digital divides across the continent.Sports2025-04-07T16:08:45+00:00How Nigeria can still qualify for 2026 World Cup if South Africa are deducted pointsPulse Sports Ghana breaks down the possible and likely outcomes that could favour Nigeria’s fight to qualify for the 2026 World Cup as South Africa battle points deduction scare. Detailed analysis and permutations…News2025-04-08T00:22:02+00:00National Security operatives discover ECG meters in abandoned building, cables in bushECG equipment stash found in secret hideouts as National Security probes missing containers.MUS READ: N/R: Pregnant woman shot dead, 2 others injured by unknown gunmenMartin Ødegaard and Gabriel Martinelli should also reclaim their starting spots, while Declan Rice and William Saliba will be crucial in containing Madrid’s attacking threats.Real Madrid, meanwhile, arrive with their usual star power, though their recent La Liga defeat to Valencia exposed occasional vulnerabilities.Carlo Ancelotti’s side, however, has been formidable in Europe, eliminating Manchester City and Atlético Madrid in previous rounds. Jude Bellingham’s influence in midfield, alongside Vinícius Jr and Kylian Mbappé’s pace, will be key weapons.Arsenal’s Probable XI (4-3-3)Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Rice, Partey, Ødegaard; Saka, Merino , MartinelliREAD ALSO: Pele and Gyan to lead 2025 CAF Schools Football ChampionshipReal Madrid’s Probable XI (4-2-1-3)Courtois; Valverde, Rüdiger, Asencio, Garcia; Valverde, Camavinga, Modric; Bellingham; Vinícius, Mbappé.Arsenal’s high press and quick transitions could trouble Madrid’s defence, particularly if Saka and Martinelli exploit the wide areas.However, Los Blancos’ experience in big Champions League nights—coupled with their lethal counter-attacking—makes them a constant threat.While Arsenal’s home advantage and fresher legs could see them start strongly, Madrid’s pedigree in this competition often shines through. Expect an open, end-to-end encounter with goals at both ends.Prediction: Both Teams to Score and Over 2.5 Goals | Real Madrid Win (1-2)