English Premier League 2018-19: Arsenal vs Chelsea- Preview and prediction
What's the story
Arsenal host Chelsea tonight in a much-anticipated derby and the match will prove to be vital in how the league table shapes up over the weekend. If Chelsea win, they have a chance to overcome Tottenham and take up the third spot on the Premier League table. If Arsenal lose, United, who share points with them, could overtake them with a win against Brighton.
Facts
Some interesting facts to gear you up for the match
Arsenal have won just once in their last 14 EPL matches against Chelsea, that too back in 2016. If Chelsea win, they will have five EPL doubles against Arsenal (defeating them in both matches in a season), and will win four consecutive away matches in a single EPL season since 2016. Arsenal are unbeaten in their last 12 home London derby matches.
Arsenal
How strong do the Gunners look?
Arsenal need to step up their game after losing to West Ham last week. Rob Holding (knee), Henrikh Mkhitaryan, and Danny Welbeck (both ankle) will not be involved in the action due to injury concerns. Emery may field his usual 3-4-3 formation with Lacazette leading the attack and Leno starting at goal. Notably, Arsenal have lost three out of their last six EPL matches.
Chelsea
Are the Blues prepared for the challenge?
Chelsea's major problem is their lack of a goalscoring forward, as neither Giroud nor Morata are in prime form. Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who has been in good form of late, will be out of action due to a back injury. Sarri might field a 4-3-3 formation with Hazard playing as a false nine and being the focal point of their attack.
Key players
Who will be the key players for tonight's match?
For Arsenal, Lacazette and Aubameyang will be the key players who can bring them a victory with their amazing goalscoring abilities. Chelsea have many talented players in their ranks, and it is a no-brainer to say that a lot will depend on Eden Hazard's performance. Mateo Kovacic and Jorginho are the focal points of their midfield, and they too will play a vital part.
Predicted line-up
Predicted line-up and TV listing
Arsenal: Leno; Mustafi, Sokratis, Koscielny; Bellerin, Torreira, Xhaka, Kolasinac; Aubameyang, Lacazette, Iwobi. Chelsea: Arrizabalaga; Azpilicueta, Rudiger, Luiz, Alonso; Kante, Jorginho, Kovacic; Pedro, Hazard, Willian. The match is scheduled to kick-off at 11:00 PM and will be telecast on Star Sports 1 or Star Sports HD, and can also be live-streamed on Hotstar.
Prediction
How can the match turn out tonight?
Both teams will know a lot is at stake when they step out in the Emirates Stadium tonight. While Arsenal have a great attacking line-up, Chelsea boast a strong defense. There is a high chance that this match can be a 2-2 draw, but it remains to be seen whether someone proves to be tonight's hero and steers his team to glory.