Kylian Mbappe joined Real Madrid with one goal in mind: Champions League glory. Now, he faces the ultimate test as Madrid look to overturn a daunting 3-0 deficit against Arsenal in Wednesday’s quarter-final second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.
After being dismantled in London last week, the reigning champions must summon one of their trademark comebacks—nights they’ve become famous for in Europe. It’s precisely for these moments that Real Madrid pursued Mbappe for so long.
The French forward’s electric pace and goal-scoring threat give Los Blancos a glimmer of hope against the odds.
“Of course we can,” Mbappe said confidently as he left the Emirates Stadium last Tuesday, following a dominant display by Arsenal.
Declan Rice’s two stunning free-kicks and a third from Mikel Merino gave Mikel Arteta’s side a commanding lead and one foot in the semi-finals. Still, they’ll be cautious—especially after witnessing Mbappe dismantle Manchester City earlier this season.
Back in February, Mbappe fired a hat-trick past the Premier League champions in the playoff round, helping Madrid advance with a 6-3 aggregate win.
Though he was sent off after just 38 minutes in Sunday’s narrow 1-0 La Liga victory over Alaves, Mbappe should be fresh and fired up for the challenge ahead.
With 33 goals in 49 appearances this season, the Frenchman is already matching the numbers of club legend Cristiano Ronaldo in his debut campaign. Now, he’ll look to add a historic Champions League comeback to his growing legacy.
