Anderlecht v Arsenal: Back an away win with the Belgians scoring
Published:A comprehensive victory over Galatasaray will have put any doubts about Arsenal’s chances of progression to the back of the mind for most, but lose to Anderlecht and Arsene Wenger will be in trouble.
In truth, the Gunners should have little trouble seeing off the Belgian champions, but with a number of defensive issues, and an unconvincing draw against Hull the springboard for this match, they don’t tempt at 8/11.
Instead, here is a trio of bets that look well worth investing in.
Arsenal have been quick out of the blocks on their travels this season, with Arsene Wenger’s side three goals to the good before half-time against Galatasaray in their last Champions League encounter.
Of the 11 goals seen by travelling Gooners this season, eight of them have come in the opening 45 minutes, so the price is worth taking here.
With changes set to be made to the back-line of both sides, early inexperience with their defensive partners could spell early goals.
With Wojciech Szescny unavailable and second-choice keeper David Ospina also injured, Arsenal will turn to Emiliano Martinez in goal.
The young Argentinian may well be capable, but he comes into a side that have kept one clean sheet all season, as they take on the Belgian champs who have found the net in 17 of their last 20 games at home.
But as the hosts come into this match after a game which featured, according to boss Besnik Hasi, “the worst 45 minutes of his tenure”, the Gunners should have enough strength to claim a win on the continent.
The referee in this match Carlos Velasco certainly likes keeping a grip on the discipline of the matches he is overseeing.
He has awarded two penalties in the last three matches that he has taken charge of, but it is in the card the department that he excels.
Over the last 20 games that he has overseen, the Spaniard has dished out 106 yellows and four reds, averaging 5.3 cards a game, and 58 booking points per tie.
Anderlecht don’t generally pick up a huge amount of bookings, although did have five players cautioned against Galatasaray, so could fall four of Mr Velasco’s penchant for cards.
All odds and markets correct as of the date of publishing
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