After 1:1 in London, Atleti are a bit closer to achieving the goal of reaching the final. But, you can be certain that Arsenal will do all in their power to ruin Atletico’s plans on Thursday evening at Wanda Metropolitano. So, who is gonna be the happier side after the referee blows the final whistle? Find out in this Atletico Madrid vs. Arsenal match preview!
Atletico Madrid
Atleti did a great job last week in England when they managed to snatch a draw, despite playing with 10 men since the 10th minute. Although the whole team played very well, there’s one player without whom the result would’ve probably been different. Of course, I’m talking about Antoine Griezmann, whose effort in the 82nd minute resulted in the equalizer.
There’s no doubt that Griezmann is Atletico’s best players, but this team has plenty of talent in the locker room. The only problem is that some of their players might be having problems with fitness. The thing is that Atletico basically have only 18 A-team players, so some of them might feel tired, considering that it’s the final part of the 2017/2018 season.
The good news is that they have no big injury worries. At least no new worries. Atletico’s full-backs Filipe Luis and Juanfran remain injured, but there are no reports of new injuries in this team. Still, there is one man who’s gonna have to miss this match – Atleti coach, Diego Simeone.
After getting sent off at the Emirates last week, the 47-year-old has to serve an automatic one-match suspension. This means that he will have to leave Atletico Madrid in the hands of his right-hand man, German Burgos.
Arsenal
As you probably know, Arsene Wenger will leave his Arsenal post after more than 20 years. He certainly wants to go out in style, so reaching the final of the Europa League (and possibly winning it) seems like his main objective. Furthermore, Arsenal’s campaign in the Premier League is more or less over. This team is likely to finish the season at the 6th spot.
In order to get to the final of the Europa League, Arsenal will have to beat Atleti in Madrid. This seems almost like a mission impossible, considering that the Gunners are famously good at home, while their away performances aren’t that impressive.
Actually, Arsenal lost six away games in a row in the Premier League. They did do better in away matches in the Europa League, but to be fair, they haven’t yet faced such a strong opponent as Atletico Madrid this season.
The good news is that, rather surprisingly, this team doesn’t have too big injury problems at the moment. There are a few players who will miss the game, but most of Arsenal’s key men are fit and ready.
Team News
Atletico Madrid absentees:
- Filipe Luis (injury)
- Juanfran (injury)
- Diego Simeone (suspension)
- Šime Vrsaljko (suspension)
Arsenal absentees:
- Mohamed Elneny (injury)
- Santi Cazorla (injury)
- Alex Iwobi (doubtful)
- Sead Kolasinac (doubtful)
Possible Lineups
Atletico Madrid
Oblak – Godin, Savic, Gimenez, Lucas Hernandez – Thomas, Gabi, Koke, Saul – Griezmann, Diego Costa.
Arsenal
Ospina – Koscielny, Mustafi, Bellerin, Monreal – Xhaka, Ramsey, Wilshere, Ozil – Lacazette, Welbeck.
Atletico Madrid vs. Arsenal Match Prediction
Atletico is a team who haven’t allowed a goal on their turf for more than 1,000 hours of football. The last time they conceded a goal at Wanda Metropolitano was back in January. Surely, Arsenal definitely seem like a side who could change that, but would it be enough for booking a place in the final? I think not.
Atletico Madrid vs. Arsenal Betting Tips
- Atletico Madrid to Qualify @1.36 (bet365)
