As Arsenal gets ready to face Shakhtar Donetsk at the Emirates Stadium, anticipation is high for this exciting UEFA Champions League match. Here’s what you need to know.
**Current Form and Predictions**
The Opta supercomputer gives Arsenal an 81.3% chance of winning. The Gunners aim to bounce back from a disappointing 2-0 loss to Bournemouth in the Premier League and build on their recent 2-0 Champions League victory over Paris Saint-Germain. In contrast, Shakhtar Donetsk has had a tough start this season, remaining one of four teams yet to score. They sit at the bottom of the standings with only a draw from their first two matches, having managed just 10 shots total and only one on target.
**Key Player Insights**
The possible return of Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard is vital for Arsenal. Saka, who has scored five goals in the Champions League this season, could be pivotal if he recovers from a recent hamstring injury. Gabriel Jesus also has a strong record against Shakhtar, having scored four Champions League goals against them during his time at Manchester City, including a hat-trick. Arsenal will look to maintain their impressive home record, remaining unbeaten at the Emirates in group-stage matches since 2015, and capitalize on Shakhtar’s weaknesses. For Shakhtar, Danylo Sikan could be their best chance to score, being involved in four of their last seven Champions League goals, though the team has struggled both in Europe and in the Ukrainian Premier League, where they currently sit fourth.
**Head-to-Head Record**
Arsenal has historically dominated this matchup, winning all four previous Champions League encounters, including a 5-1 victory at the Emirates in 2010. Shakhtar’s recent performance in England has been poor, as they haven’t won any of their last seven Champions League matches on English soil, with six losses.
**What’s at Stake?**
For Arsenal, a win against Shakhtar is essential to solidify their position in the Champions League and build momentum. With the supercomputer predicting a strong advantage for the Gunners, the question remains whether they can meet expectations. Fans will be eager to see if Arsenal can extend their unbeaten home run and if Shakhtar can turn their fortunes around. Don’t miss this thrilling clash on October 22, as Arsenal aims for Champions League success!
