Real Madrid defeats Arsenal 2-0 in Women's Champions League first leg

Goals from Linda Caicedo and Athenea del Castillo secure a strong position for Real Madrid, while poor pitch conditions draw criticism and raise concerns about player safety.

• Real Madrid claimed a 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the first leg of the Women's Champions League quarter-final, with goals from Linda Caicedo and Athenea del Castillo.
• The sodden pitch at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stéfano was heavily criticized for its poor condition, impacting play and raising player safety concerns.
• Arsenal manager Renée Slegers expressed confidence in overturning the deficit in the second leg, scheduled for March 26 at the Emirates Stadium.
• Real Madrid midfielder Melanie Leupolz sustained a knee injury during the match, adding to the debate over the pitch's suitability for high-profile games.
• The Professional Footballers’ Association and figures like Ian Wright have called for improved infrastructure and standards in women’s football following the match.

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