UCL Match Day 5: Arsenal v FC Braga; Match Preview
Da Group Stages Return
If I am honest with all of you – I am still smarting from this weekend. I seriously needed some time away from the blog, the team and the EPL. But then Chelsea had to go an lose and least give me a false hope for the season (yes losing to Spurs has made me become somewhat slightly of a doubter) but as I said earlier, I look at each new match with renewed hope. I am just finding harder to get that renewed hope this time around.
Anyway, with that and my absloute disgust with the UCL group stages – an utterly useless waste of time – I am going to keep it brief.
The last time these two teams met at the Emirates it wasn’t even close. For all their bravdo and talk, Braga simply didn’t show up. I suspect that since we are in Portugal that may change but frankly, I really don’t see Braga as a threat.
A win, and we win the group outright. A draw though is enough to secure us our ticket. Frankly, that may be on Arsene’s mind as he has left both Arshavin and Van Persie at home. Also, I think it is unlikely that Fabregas gets the start as he in my opinion at least still does not look fit.
Arsene has pledged himself to winning something this season. Oddly enough the team is still in contention for all trophies. I am and have been of the belief that the chances for a European trophy are actually pretty good with squad because of the nature of the possible opponents. As long as Arsenal avoids an English team it could be in for a good run.
I believe that will happen.
How this Should Play Out:
I am looking for a big push out of the boys in this match. The squad needs to refocus itself coming off the collapse this weekend. Anything less than a complete 100% effort for 90 minutes is unacceptable. Look for the squad to attack and attack early. At home it was a 6-0 walk in the park with braces by Vela and Fabregas. While we are travelling to Braga I suspect Arsenal to get the win they need to advance to their 11th consecutive knockout stage.
Possible Starting XI:
Arsenal: Fabianski, Sagna, Gibbs, Squillaci, Djourou, Denilson, Song, Wilshere, Rosicky, Bendtner, Walcott
Braga: Felipe, Silvio, Rodriguez, Miguel Garcia, Vardinho, Luis Aguiar, Alan, Lima, Paulo Cesar, Matheus
Injuries/Suspensions:
Arsenal: Diaby (ankle) Vermaelen (achilles) Ramsey (ankle) Frimpong (knee)
Braga: Quim (achilles) Eldersen (Suspended – 1) Salino (Suspended – 1)
Broadcast:
US: Fox Soccer Channel 2:30PM
UK: Sky Sports 2 1945
Feeds:
www.atdhe.net
GAMEDAY CHAT: It’s Open!!!!!! www.youaremyarsenal.com/gamedaychat
YAMA Prediction:
Arsenal: 3
Braga: 0
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