Barcelona happy after Real Madrid’s defeat to Arsenal for more than one reason – report | OneFootball

On Tuesday night, Barcelona’s arch-rivals, Real Madrid, succumbed to a humiliating 3-0 loss to Arsenal in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side, having already lost to Valencia in La Liga over the weekend, fell to a second defeat in a row, which dented their hopes of progressing in Europe’s premier competition.

Happiness at Barcelona over Madrid’s loss

Now, according to journalist Jose Alvarez on El Chiringuito TV, there is a sense of satisfaction and happiness in the Barcelona camp following Real Madrid’s 3-0 defeat to Arsenal.

While the result took place hundreds of miles away in London, its ripple effects are being felt in Catalonia for two key reasons.

First and foremost, Barça continue to view Real Madrid as a direct rival in the race for the Champions League title.

With the two teams positioned in opposing brackets, there has been a lot of talk about a potential El Clasico final for the trophy this season.

Real Madrid lost 3-0 to Arsenal. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Any stumble by Real Madrid, particularly one as significant as a three-goal deficit ahead of a second leg, would be viewed as a positive development at Barça as it would mean that they will not have to face their rivals in the finals.

La Liga boost as well?

But there is also a more immediate, domestic angle to the satisfaction. Within the Barça camp, there is a belief that Real Madrid’s loss may influence Ancelotti’s rotation plans for this weekend’s La Liga fixture against Alaves.

With the second leg against Arsenal just days away, Ancelotti will likely rest key players in the league game to prioritise the European comeback.

For Barcelona, sitting at the top of the pile in La Liga, this could tilt the balance in the title race or, at the very least, help consolidate their position.

The timing could not be better for Barça, who face Borussia Dortmund in their own quarter-final tie. With spirits high and confidence growing, every small advantage – on and off the pitch – is welcome.