Courtois wary of Arsenal’s set-piece threat

The Real Madrid goalkeeper returns from injury and warns of Arsenal’s dead ball danger.

Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid during a press conference at Emirates Stadium in London on April 7, 2025. Photo by Bradley Collyer/PA Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Courtois is wary of Arsenal's set-piece threat ahead of the Champions League clash between Real Madrid and the Gunners. As the Spanish giants prepare to visit the Emirates Stadium for the first leg of their quarter-final battle, the Belgian goalkeeper stressed the importance of staying alert and focused against Mikel Arteta’s well-rehearsed set plays.

Speaking to Real Madrid’s official website, Courtois said, “We know how to defend from set pieces and we will try not to concede too many corners. It's a matter of focus and awareness.” His remarks reflect both respect and caution toward a tactical weapon that has served Arsenal well throughout the season.

Indeed, Arsenal has emerged as one of the most dangerous teams in Europe from dead ball situations. Whether from corners or free kicks, Arteta’s side has demonstrated creativity and efficiency. Much of that success comes from players like William Saliba, Declan Rice, and the now-injured Gabriel Magalhães, who frequently find space and timing to deliver crucial goals.

Real Madrid’s defensive challenge at the Emirates

Real Madrid will face an uphill battle on Wednesday at 02.00 WIB when they step onto the pitch in London. While their attacking flair is rarely questioned, it’s their defensive composure under pressure that will be tested against Arsenal’s aerial threats.

Courtois acknowledged that even the best planning can fall short against perfectly executed set-pieces. “It also depends on the quality of the opponent because if the perfect ball goes in, it will be very difficult to defend. We hope that what we have prepared will work well for us,” he added.

With Arsenal pressing hard for their first Champions League semi-final appearance in years, Real Madrid knows the margin for error is razor-thin. Set-pieces, often overlooked by fans, could become the defining difference in the tie.

A welcome return for Courtois

For Los Blancos, Courtois’ return couldn’t be timelier. Having missed several games due to a muscle injury, the experienced goalkeeper is now back in full training and ready to feature between the posts. “I'm one hundred percent ready... I've been training in the gym and on the pitch in the last few days,” Courtois confirmed.

His presence brings a sense of security to the backline, especially with other goalkeepers like Andriy Lunin still recovering. Courtois’ composure, shot-stopping prowess, and command of the area will be essential, particularly in managing high balls and crosses from Arsenal’s wide men.

Arsenal’s deadly delivery and who steps up

Arsenal may be without Gabriel Magalhães for the first leg, but the threat remains. Saliba, Rice, and even Ben White are known for their ability to rise in the box. Meanwhile, set-piece takers such as Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard consistently deliver pinpoint balls that ask questions of any defense.

Set-piece strategy has become one of Arsenal’s strongest features under Arteta. Rather than relying solely on open-play creativity, the Gunners have built a tactical approach that values every dead ball opportunity. Against Real Madrid, that strength will likely come into sharp focus.

Real Madrid’s preparation behind the scenes

Carlo Ancelotti and his coaching staff are reportedly aware of Arsenal’s tactical strengths, and defending set-pieces has been a key focus during training sessions. With players like Antonio Rüdiger and Éder Militão tasked with winning aerial duels, and midfielders instructed to clear second balls quickly, Real Madrid will look to limit Arsenal’s chances from corners and indirect free kicks.

Courtois’ leadership will be instrumental in organizing the defense. Communication will be key — especially in high-pressure situations where one misstep can lead to a vital away goal for the hosts.

A clash of philosophies

This quarter-final tie is more than just a battle between two European heavyweights — it’s a clash of footballing philosophies. Real Madrid brings experience, pedigree, and attacking brilliance, while Arsenal arrives with youthful energy, structure, and tactical precision.

Set-pieces might seem like a small piece of the puzzle, but in Champions League knockouts, details matter. As Courtois highlighted, preparation, awareness, and quality all converge in those decisive moments.

The stage is set

As fans around the world tune in to watch the match at the Emirates, much of the spotlight will naturally fall on stars like Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Jr., Ødegaard, and Saka. But as Courtois pointed out, the game could just as easily be won or lost in the trenches — through a perfectly placed corner, a free header, or a lapse in marking.

If Real Madrid can neutralize Arsenal’s set-piece threat, they will take a giant step toward another semifinal appearance. But if they falter, the Gunners might finally break through and prove themselves ready for Europe’s biggest stage.

For now, Courtois and his teammates remain focused and quietly confident. “We’ve prepared well,” he said. Whether that preparation pays off, we’ll find out under the lights at the Emirates.