On Sky
Arsenal travel to the fortress that is Estadio Dragao on Wednesday looking to secure top spot in their Champions League group…
Vital Quotes:
Le Boss says that this season’s Champions Leauge group has been much tougher than last season: “I feel we are in a difficult group,” he said.
“Last year we were in with Thun and Sparta Prague. It was much easier than this year.
‘Look now at our group. CSKA Moscow, who were top of our group, are suddenly in a position where they might not qualify. And it is always difficult to beat the Portuguese sides.
‘Even Hamburg, who are bottom. It is hard when you play against a German team.
‘Look at Werder Bremen, they are doing well in the group of Chelsea. So I have always felt our group would be very tight.
“Of course it will be a blow [if we went out]. However at the moment we have a very good chance to qualify because Moscow has to win in Hamburg no matter what happens.
“But, of course, we go there to win the game at Porto and go through. That will give us a lift.”
Porto Team News:
Porto have got a full squad to choose from after Helder Postiga recovered from his injury in time to face the Gunners
Player to watch: Anderson
The young striker failed to impress at The Grove but you don’t get the title of ‘the next Ronaldinho’ for no reason. He will be looking to impress
Arsenal Team News:
Arsenal have a whole host of injury problems. Lonng-term absentees Diaby and Lauren remain out while Willy Gallas and Tomas Rosicky are injured while captain Thierry Henry is suspended after collecting three yellow cards.
Senderos returns after missing the NLD through suspension.
Player to watch: Cesc Fabregas
The midfileder has been outstanding this season, espically in the Champions League. If Arsenal are going to win then he will have a major part to play.
Match Facts & Stats
– Arsenal are guaranteed a place in the knockout stages if they get at least a draw in Portugal.
– Arsenal will win the group, providing they are not defeated in this game.
– FC Porto will top the group with a victory.
Match Prediction:
As usual, over on the Fourm…
Vital Members Have Thier Say
Vital Arsenal Member PureGold: ‘Three points is needed no excuses, goals from in-form Adebayor and Fabregas to seal the group and take us onto the first round knockout’