Arsenal host Russian side CSKA Moscow in the first leg of their Europa League quarter final tie in North London on Thursday, with Arsene Wenger’s men looking to win the competition in order to qualify for the Champions League. However, with their opponents having seen off French giants Lyon in the previous round, it could well be a close encounter at the Emirates Stadium.
Europa League – Emirates Stadium, London – Thursday 5th April – 20:05 UK Time
Arsenal vs CSKA Moscow Match Preview
Arsenal take on CSKA Moscow in the Europa League this week, with the Premier League side looking to put them domestic struggles to one side as they bid to make the last four of the competition. However, their Russian opponents having impressed in their recent win over Lyon, the underdogs may well provide a stern test to the hosts. For those still unsure of who to back ahead of kick-off, be sure to check out our top betting tip below. However, let’s first take a closer look at the two teams, starting with the home side.
Arsenal Team News & Form
Arsenal scored three times in the last 15 minutes in order to defeat Stoke City in the Premier League over the weekend, however the Gunners remain in sixth position in the standings. As a result, Arsene Wenger is likely to name a strong side against CSKA, with new signing Pierre Emerick Aubameyang looking to continue his impressive run of form in front of goal of late. Elsewhere, the likes of Mesut Ozil, Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere should line up for the hosts.
CSKA Moscow Team News & Form
CSKA Moscow come into the match off the back of a narrow away win over Rostov in the Russian Premier League, a result which consolidated their third-place position in the standings. Brazilian striker Vitinho could well lead the line for the visitors, while Russian internationals Alan Dzagoev and Igor Akinfeev will hope to perform well at differing ends of the pitch. Elsewhere, on-loan Leicester City man Ahmed Musa will be looking to return to somewhere near his best form following a disappointing spell in the Premier League.
Arsenal vs CSKA Moscow Head to Head
The two teams have met just twice in the past, with Arsenal still searching for a first competitive win over their Russian opponents. The duo were drawn together in the group stage of the Champions League back in 2006, with CSKA Moscow running out 1-0 winners in the Russian capital, before holding Arsenal to a goalless draw in the return fixture.
Arsenal vs CSKA Moscow Betting Odds and Predictions
Given their home status and profile in European football, it comes as little surprise that it is Arsenal who are the firm favourites for victory this week. The home side can be backed for victory at best odds of 1/3 with bookmaker William Hill, while those looking to bet on a surprise success for CSKA Moscow can get a price of 9/1 on the same platform. Meanwhile, a draw between the two is available at odds of 15/4 with Paddy Power.
Top Arsenal vs CSKA Moscow Betting Tip
However, our top betting tip for the match is to bet on Arsenal keeping a clean sheet come the end of the 90 minutes at the Emirates, with odds of 4/5 available at Ladbrokes.