UEFA Approves Real Madrid Roof Closure for Arsenal Tie
UEFA have granted Real Madrid permission to close the retractable roof of their Santiago Bernabeu Stadium for the Champions League (UCL) quarter-final second leg against Arsenal tonight, Wednesday 16 April.
The Spanish giants are looking to overturn a 3-0 deficit after a tough first-leg loss in London, England, last week.
The decision, which had to be pre-approved by UEFA under European competition rules, is aimed at amplifying the stadium’s atmosphere, something manager Carlo Ancelotti believes can give the home side a psychological edge.
Real have previously benefited from the enhanced acoustics of a closed roof, notably in last season’s dramatic win over Bayern Munich.
While Madrid hope to create a fortress-like setting, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is undeterred. During a pre-match interview, he insisted that his side will play to win and that they view the occasion as an opportunity to write a new chapter in the club’s European history.
Real Madrid, who are known for staging UCL comebacks, will also be buoyed by the return of Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior. However, the Gunners arrive with a strong defensive record and a clear intent: to silence the Bernabeu and seal a semi-final spot.
Image Credit: Source
