Arsenal news: Opinion – How do they stop Real Madrid’s attack?

In part two of our Arsenal Q&A with BBC Sport football news reporter Alex Howell, we consider the Gunners’ prospects in the Champions League – with a quarter-final against holders Real Madrid on the horizon.

Vince asked: Arsenal had the lion’s share of possession and attacking verve in recent games against West Ham, Manchester United and PSV, yet were then punished on the counter in a frustrating manner. These teams right now are not even anywhere near the top of European football. How are Arsenal going to stop this against Real Madrid and their world-class attack of Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo?

Alex: Arsenal have the best defence in the Premier League and have only conceded 24 goals this season. As you list there, the players Real Madrid have are some of the world’s best but being forced to be more defensive may suit Arsenal.

Their attacking play, particularly after the injuries, has not been great to watch and playing a match where they have to stay defensively solid and may need a set-piece or counter-attack to score could help them.

Bukayo Saka could be back after the international break and, with his and Gabriel Martinelli’s pace, that could give them a chance.

A full-strength Arsenal would make this fascinating but, without fully-fit attackers to choose from, it is advantage Real.

Nigel asked: Do Arsenal risk it all on red and go for the Champions League or hedge their bets and try to hope that Liverpool lose ground and a miracle lets them catch up?

Alex: The Premier League title is realistically done. I think you can feel that when speaking to the players.

Even though Mikel Arteta said “over my dead body” would Arsenal give up, he has now changed to taking one game at a time.

The Champions League tie with Real is so tough but beat Madrid and things could get interesting.

Come back to this page later on Wednesday for the final part as Alex analyses the bigger picture at Emirates Stadium