Big Match Breakdown: Atletico Madrid v Arsenal

For Atleti, Simeone made several changes at the weekend too. Diego Costa started which means the Spaniard could be in the squad for the full 90 minutes (and beyond) this evening, having only been fit enough for the bench at the Emirates.

There will be at least one change from Madrid’s XI seven days ago however, with Sime Vrsaljko suspended following his sending off.

Key Battles

This is a huge game for Arsenal in all areas. They must be clinical up front, accurate and dedicated in midfield, and alert at the back. They’ve been guilty of failing in each aspect several times this season.

In Costa and Antoine Griezmann, Madrid boast two mighty strikers. Not only are they gifted on the ball, but they’re clever too.

Their movement and vision can cause Arsenal problems if Koscielny and his men aren’t focused.

Granit Xhaka will need to have a night to remember and dictate the play in midfield, while Ramsey’s ability to find space will be crucial.

Top performances are also needed from Ozil, Wilshere and Mkhitaryan.

Arsenal’s chances rest heavily on their creative talents producing the goods, while Lacazette cannot afford to waste a single chance this evening.

Atletico’s defensive unit is as solid as any in the game, however.

They’re as disciplined and organised as they come, and will have most of Arsenal’s attacks covered with aplomb. It will take something special to break them down.

Match Odds

Given Atletico’s stunning home record, they’re unsurprisingly favourites to win tonight at 3/4. Arsenal are 4/1, with a draw available at 5/2 with Coral.

In terms of who makes the final, Atleti again hold the upper hand. The Madrid side are 2/7 to progress, with the Gunners the outsiders at 5/2.

Arsenal must score or they’re out. That could leave them exposed at the back. Both teams to score is 19/20, while over 2.5 goals is 21/20.

Will Costa prove a thorn in Arsenal’s side once again? The former Chelsea man is 4/1 to open the scoring and 6/4 anytime.

There’s 11/4 for Griezmann to break the deadlock, and the French star is 19/20 to net at any point.

For Wenger’s side, Coral are 7/1 about Lacazette to put Arsenal 1-0 up, with Danny Welbeck 9/1.

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All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing