In Video: Can Arsenal win the Champions League? | The Football Show
Let’s Head Off to the Emirates: A Tactical Lesson from Arsenal’s Victory
Saturday night saw Arsenal win a crucial game against Brentford, but as we analyze this match, it’s hard not to feel that it didn’t really matter for the Gunners. They’re still fighting to finish in the top four, but it’s clear that their focus is now on the Champions League.
Mikel Arteta’s team selection may have reflected this shift in priorities. Instead of playing his strongest team against Brentford and Everton, he rested some players to ensure they were fresh for the return leg against Real Madrid. This decision has sparked debate, with some questioning whether they should have put more pressure on Liverpool in the Premier League.
However, it’s possible that Arteta is thinking long-term. If Arsenal had beaten Everton and Liverpool had lost to Fulham, they would have put pressure on the Reds and made the final day of the season more interesting. This could have led to mistakes and a different outcome in the West Ham game.
But does it matter? Liverpool were always the favorites to win the Premier League, and Arsenal’s focus is now on the Champions League. Their win against Real Madrid has put them in a strong position, and they will face Everton and then Real Madrid in the coming weeks. The pressure will be on, but Arsenal will be ready.
Arsenal showed their defensive solidity and resilience in their win against Real Madrid, and they have the quality to hurt any team. They will need to be clinical, but they have the players to do it. Saka, in particular, is a shining light, and his confidence and belief in his team’s ability to succeed are contagious.
The second leg against Real Madrid will be fascinating to watch. Arsenal will need to approach it wisely, balancing their desire to kill the game off with the risk of leaving spaces for Real Madrid to exploit. But with their defensive solidity and attacking flair, they have the tools to succeed.
In conclusion, Arsenal’s win against Brentford may have seemed inconsequential, but it’s all part of a bigger picture. They’ve set themselves up perfectly for the Champions League, and they will be confident going into the second leg against Real Madrid. Bring on the Emirates and a potentially thrilling conclusion to the season.