Just hours before the clash between Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid and Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals, Ghanaian journalist and sports analyst Dennis Akosah Boampong, better known as Andy Kerm, has identified the key player in the Madrid squad who could tip the balance.
Having been heavily beaten in the first leg (3–0), Real Madrid must produce a monumental performance this Wednesday against the Gunners. For what promises to be a thrilling encounter at the Santiago Bernabéu, Carlo Ancelotti is expected to spring a few surprises in his starting eleven. However, with their status as undisputed stars, players like Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Junior will undoubtedly be part of the action from kick-off. While collective effort will be one of the main pillars in attempting a comeback, Los Blancos need a sensational response from their number 7.
Is Vinicius the key to the match?
Previewing the match, which kicks off at 7pm GMT (9pm in Spain) and will be officiated by French referees, Andy Kerm pointed to Vinicius Junior. Completely absent in the first leg last week, the Brazilian forward remains one of the main assets in Madrid’s squad to pull off the remontada. “Tonight, Vinícius Junior will be the key to the match for Real Madrid. He must deliver his best performance. If he shows up, Arsenal will be eliminated,” said the sports analyst.
It must be said that this is a widely shared view. In recent months of Champions League action, Real Madrid have often produced brilliance largely thanks to Vinicius Junior. On the left flank, the Brazilian international can cause havoc for defences if he manages to dribble past opponents and regain his confidence in front of goal. Today, the big question is whether Carlo Ancelotti can find the right words to spark a revival in his player, who has been struggling in recent weeks.
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