Arsenal vs PSG
Arsenal face a crucial Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday, aiming to secure their first win of the campaign after a goalless draw with Atalanta. The Gunners will be buoyed by PSG’s recent decline, compounded by the absence of several key players.
Predicted XI
Arsenal are expected to field a similar starting lineup as their recent victory over Leicester City, with the exception of Ben White, who remains uncertain, and the continued absence of Merino and Odegaard due to injury. The Gunners will be eager to make a statement against PSG and secure a crucial Champions League win.
Arsenal’s recent success can largely be attributed to the exceptional performances of Bukayo Saka, who has been directly involved in seven goals in their first five Champions League home games. His pinpoint crosses from set-pieces have played a crucial role in Arsenal’s goal-scoring opportunities.
Despite a disappointing draw against Atalanta and a late collapse against Manchester City, Arsenal’s victory over Leicester City provided a much-needed boost. Mikel Arteta’s side will face a formidable PSG team, who have remained unbeaten in Ligue 1 this season. Bradley Barcola, with his impressive goal-scoring record, will be a key threat for Arsenal. However, PSG will be missing Ousmane Dembélé, who has been excluded from the squad for the match.
A Surprising History
Arsenal have a strong record against PSG in European competition, remaining unbeaten in their last four encounters. PSG, on the other hand, have struggled in away games against English sides, losing their last three matches in the Champions League.
Arsenal’s previous home game against a French side resulted in a resounding 6-0 victory over Lens last season. This remains the largest ever win by an English team over a French opponent in Europe.
Arteta will face a familiar opponent in Luis Enrique, who has a strong record against Spanish managers in the Champions League. Enrique has won five of his last six matches against Spanish coaches, including victories over Pep Guardiola, Unai Emery, Xavi, Imanol Alguacil, and Míchel.
Predictions:
Arsenal are widely expected to emerge victorious in their home match against PSG, despite the French side’s formidable reputation. The Gunners’ defensive prowess will be put to the test against the likes of Barcola, but PSG’s lack of a clinical striker gives Arsenal a significant advantage. A 2-0 win for Arsenal is a likely outcome.
Scoreline: Arsenal 2 – PSG 0
POTM: Bukayo Saka
Suggested Bet: Arsenal to Win – YES
Written by Reekesh Somaroo
For Art of Analysis