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Two-leg Champions League fixtures are a game of four halves and the truth is that the Gunners still do have a chance of using the remaining 90 minutes of the tie to overcome Barcelona. No serious Gunners fan would say that chance has become any easier following the concession of two goals at the Emirates, but Arsenal can still do it – even if the task appears to be monumental at the moment.
Let’s consider the positives rather than focusing on what might go wrong when Arsenal head to Camp Nou. The first thing to say is that Arsenal have little to lose and if they can play with a degree of abandon, then they are much more likely to pose a risk to the home team. Barcelona have a lead to defend, after all. The right balance of risk and control is what is required and the longer than Arsenal keep a clean sheet, then the nervier the home fans will become.
There are two central figures in making this plan a reality. The first is Arsène Wenger. There are few club managers in the world who can pick and then inspire their team to play with the right tactical approach in the situation Arsenal currently find themselves in. The second is Petr Cech. The Gunners’ goalkeeper had a great game in the first leg, despite being beaten twice. Most notable was his save from Neymar’s strike shortly after half-time. Don’t doubt the ex-Chelsea man’s desire for Champions League success, nor his desire to keep Barcelona at bay.
Of course, keeping a clean sheet will only lead to success in the tie if Arsenal can get two goals in normal time. With one goal, all of the pressure is heaped on Barcelona. With two, all bets are off and we may see one of the future classics of the competition unfold. Therefore, Arsenal need their goal-threatening players to be on form from the first minute to the ninetieth.
It is probable that Wenger will ask Mesut Özil to perform a similar second-striker role as he did in the first leg. Barcelona were not always at ease dealing with his running ability and footballing vision. Furthermore, Olivier Giroud will be another key campaigner and few would back him to have the same low-impact performance as he achieved in North London. Giroud has too much class for two lacklustre Champions League appearances in a row.
If you believe the Gunners can live up to the challenge, why not make the game even more exciting by placing a bet? On Bet365, you can currently get a bonus code and enjoy a risk-free bet. Good luck!
