UEFA approves Real Madrid request for Champions League clash with Arsenal

UEFA has approved Real Madrid’s Champions League “special request” to close the roof of their stadium for the Champions League clash against Arsenal on Wednesday.

The approved request for the Arsenal game comes in as a boost for the fans, something manager Carlo Ancelotti believes “can encourage the team” to overturn a 3-0 goal deficit at home.

Los Blancos will have to overturn a 3-0 deficit from the first leg when they host the Gunners at the Santiago Bernabeu in the quarter-final tie on Wednesday.

Ancelotti’s side are looking to have the best atmosphere from the crowd, capable enough motivate the players to relive another comeback.

Thankfully, Madrid’s request for permission from UEFA to allow them to leave the roof closed during the match has received positive feedback.

Real Madrid face an uphill battle in the return leg at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday evening

UEFA has granted permission to Madrid to close the roof, which will come as a vital boost to Carlo Ancelotti, who has spoken of the possible advantage it could ignite on the night.

The roof was closed when they beat Bayern Munich in the semi-final of the Champions League last season, seeing two late Joselu goals snatch the victory.

He said: “Acoustically it’s different, there’s more noise, a much better atmosphere, I think. That can encourage the team to be even more motivated.”

Madrid’s home form has been encouraging this season, having lost four home matches in all competitions in the campaign – losing 2-1 to Valencia in their last home game at the Spanish capital.

Ancelotti’s men are no newcomers to pulling a rabbit out of a hat when it comes to turning the game around, at a time when everyone probably thinks they are down and done.

They will look to solidify their tag as “comeback kings” of Europe once the ball is kicked, hoping a close roof will bring down the heavens for another unimaginable night of magic against an Arsenal that have arguably one of the best defence in Europe this season.