Kylian Mbappe has expressed confidence that Real Madrid can pull off a remarkable turnaround and overcome their 3-0 deficit against Arsenal in the Champions League.
The Gunners head to the Bernabeu next Wednesday with a commanding advantage after two free-kicks from Declan Rice and a strike by Mikel Merino left the European champions stunned in the first leg at the Emirates.
A comeback from a three-goal first-leg deficit is not unprecedented in Champions League history.
In 2017, Barcelona achieved an unforgettable 6-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain after losing the first leg 4-0. Two years later, Liverpool pulled off a 4-0 win over Barcelona after a 3-0 defeat in the first leg.
Mbappe gave Real Madrid fans hope with a defiant message on Instagram, “We have to believe until the end.”
The French star reiterated his belief in his team’s ability to bounce back when he was asked about the possibility of a turnaround after the match at Emirates Stadium. “Of course we can come back,” Mbappe said.
These were bold words from the 26-year-old, who had been a threat in the first half but faded as the game progressed.
As Arsenal took control, Mbappe’s frustration was evident, especially after Rice’s second goal, where he was seen reacting with shock, disbelief, and confusion.
Carlo Ancelotti’s team has little time to recover from their humiliating loss in London. If they are not careful, their season could unravel quickly.
By the time they face Alaves on Sunday, Real Madrid could find themselves seven points adrift of La Liga leaders Barcelona.
Four days after that critical match, they will face Arsenal at home in the second leg, knowing they need something extraordinary.
While the Gunners will aim for their first semi-final appearance since 2009, Real Madrid will hope that the pressure of the occasion might cause Arteta’s side to falter.
However, it was the 15-time European champions who appeared overwhelmed in the first leg, and they now face an uphill battle.
