Prediction: Sporting Lisbon vs Arsenal

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 12/5

Bookmaker: 888sport

The UEFA Europa League is back in our lives once again this week as a parade of clubs attempt to move one step closer to the quarter-finals of this year’s competition. You could make the argument for all 16 remaining teams regarding their feasibility of going all the way, and that’s especially true for the two sides we’re looking at today as Sporting Lisbon go head to head with Arsenal.

Sporting Lisbon

After narrowly missing out on the title last season, Sporting Lisbon have fallen a step or two back in recent months on a domestic front. Some will put that down to the growing strength of the Primeira Liga, whereas others will feel as if Sporting have work to do in the transfer market. Whatever the case may be, it’ll be interesting to see how they approach a two-legged fixture of this magnitude.

Team News

Braganca is currently injured due to a cruciate ligament injury but aside from that, Lisbon have a fully fit squad.

Arsenal

The primary focus for Arsenal Football Club this season is the Premier League. Mikel Arteta has this side situated in 1st place in the title race and while Manchester City are snapping at their heels, the boys from North London can’t stop grinding out results. The Europa League, in many ways, can serve as a distraction, which is why we’re intrigued by the gaffer’s team selection by the time Thursday rolls around.

Team News

Nketiah will be assessed before the game due to an ankle problem with Trossard, Jesus and Elneny still on the shelf.

Factors to Consider

• Arsenal have never lost to Sporting in European competition.
• Sporting have won four, drawn one and lost one of their last six games.
• Arsenal have won four, drawn one and lost one of their last six games.
• Sporting have scored 12 goals and conceded five in their last six games.
• Arsenal have scored 14 goals and conceded eight in their last six games.

Conclusion

In a meeting between two sides that have great quality going forward, it’s easy to fall back and pick the team who is at home – if they’re known for possessing an intimidating atmosphere, that is. Alas, we do think there’s a gap between Sporting and Arsenal in terms of quality, which the Gunners are going to exploit, especially in the first half. Ultimately, we’re going to back a nervy but entertaining 1-1 draw.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 12/5

Bookmaker: 888sport