The quarterfinal first legs will take place on March 18-19, with the return legs held March 26-27. The semifinals will be staged April 19-20 and April 26-27.
This year’s final will be held at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal, on May 24.
REAL MADRID VS. ARSENAL
Arsenal have been in impressive form since Renée Slegers took charge of the first team, initially as interim and now as permanent head coach. The team went on an 11-game unbeaten run before falling to Chelsea in the Women’s Super League (WSL) in January. Despite that setback, the squad have grown in confidence and cohesion under the Dutch manager.
The turning point of their season came in the Champions League opener, a 5-2 defeat to Bayern Munich, which ultimately led to the departure of former boss Jonas Eidevall. However, Arsenal responded in style, winning all their remaining group stage matches to finish top.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, secured second place behind Chelsea, losing both encounters with the WSL champions but winning all their other fixtures. Domestically, they sit five points behind Liga F leaders and reigning champions Barcelona. With both teams boasting a rich — though often unpredictable — history in the competition, this promises to be a fascinating matchup.
The key player who could decide it for each team
Arsenal: Mariona Caldentey. The former Champions League winner will be a crucial figure for Arsenal, having already proven her ability to change games. Equally effective on the wing or in a central role, her experience in high-stakes European matches — including knockouts and finals — gives her an edge. With a winning pedigree and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at this level, she should be a game-changer for Arsenal.
Real Madrid: Linda Caicedo. The 19-year-old has emerged as a key player for Madrid, netting three goals in six Champions League appearances this season. Her blistering pace and ability to dismantle defences make her a constant threat. While Arsenal boast one of the WSL’s strongest defensive records this season, containing Caicedo will be a true test of their resilience.
Who advances?
Arsenal. Given their tenacity and hunger for trophies, they seem more likely to secure a spot in the semifinals. Though Madrid will not make it easy, the Gunners’ star-studded squad and experience in crunch fixtures puts them just ahead of their Spanish rivals.
