The UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg between Sporting CP and Arsenal kicks off tonight at the Estádio José Alvalade. This matchup features two teams on opposite ends of the momentum spectrum: Sporting is riding a massive high in Lisbon, while Arsenal is looking to snap a rare losing streak
Current Form
Sporting is on an incredible 17- game winning streak at home in all competitions. They had overturned a 0-3 deficit by beating Bodø/Glimt 5-0 at the Jose Alvalade in the Round of 16. It was indeed a fabulous rearguard action by the Portuguese side.
Arsenal, unfortunately, have lost its last two games. First, they went down to Manchester City at Wembley to lose the Carabao Cup Final, and then they were bundled out of the FA Cup at the quarter-final stage by a determined Southampton side. There are a few worries, but Arsenal have remained unbeaten in the Champions League this season and will surely draw inspiration from this terrific statistic.
Players to Watch Out For
Sporting are brimming with confidence and are blessed with Luis Suarez, who has been in an exceptional scoring form and has already netted 33 goals this season.
Arsenal would be more than happy to welcome back Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice to their squad, and with the free-scoring Viktor Gyökeres in their side, the Gunners are a formidable opponent indeed.
Possible Scenarios
Sporting would be wary of the fact that they are yet to beat Arsenal in regulation time in 7 previous meetings, but the fact that they are playing at home gives them a massive advantage. Sporting is very difficult to beat in their backyard.
It is expected to be a tight contest, but Arsenal surely have the edge and might come through in a close match. A draw may not be that bad for the Gunners either.
A very important game for Mikel Arteta. He would be looking to reverse the recent trend of losses and keep hopes of some silverware alive.
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