Arsenal vs Lens: Champions League kick-off time, predictions, and where to watch the match
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Arsenal vs Lens match preview || Credit: Imago

Arsenal vs Lens: Champions League kick-off time, predictions, and where to watch the match

Stephen Oladehinde 18:43 - 29.11.2023

Tonight at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal have their eyes set on advancing to the Champions League knockout stages as they play host to RC Lens.

Match Preview

Arsenal are determined to make amends for their earlier loss in France this season. They are eager to perform well in front of their home fans and aim to reach the Round of 16, a feat they haven't achieved in seven years. 

In their last appearance in the Round of 16 stage, Arsenal faced a tough challenge and was eventually defeated 5-1 by Barcelona.

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Arsenal vs RC Lens Team news

Fabio Vieira won't be available for the upcoming Champions League match following a recent groin surgery that will keep him out of action for several weeks. 

Arsenal will still be without key players Thomas Partey, Jurrien Timber, and Emile Smith Rowe, although Smith Rowe is progressing towards a comeback. 

In goal, David Raya will return after Aaron Ramsdale's unsteady performance against Brentford. Kai Havertz is expected to retain his place thanks to his match-winning goal in the previous game. Gabriel Jesus, who scored in the initial match against Lens, will be eager to find the net again tonight.

Gabriel Jesus in action against Lens || Credit: Imago
Gabriel Jesus in action against Lens || Credit: Imago

Lens, on the other hand, have received a boost with the return of defender Kevin Danso from injury. Striker Elye Wahi, despite being suspended for domestic matches, will be available to contribute to the team's efforts, having already scored in the previous encounter against their opponents.

In their head-to-head history and results, Arsenal has secured victories over Lens on only two occasions, with both wins occurring during the 1999-2000 UEFA Cup semi-final. Additionally, there has been one draw, and Lens has emerged victorious in two encounters.

  • Arsenal wins: 2
  • Draws: 1
  • Lens wins: 2

Arsenal vs Lens possible lineups

Our anticipated formation for the Gunners is a 4-3-3, and the potential starting lineup might look like this: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Magalhães, Zinchenko Rice, Odegaard, Havertz; Saka, Jesus, Martinelli.

Arsenal possible lineup || Credit: Sofascore
Arsenal possible lineup || Credit: Sofascore

Our projection suggests that the away team may opt for a 3-4-2-1 formation with the following lineup: Samba; Gradit, Danso, Medina, Haïdara, Mendy, Samed, Frankowski; Thomasson, Sotoca; Wahi.

Lens possible lineup || Credit: Sofascore
Lens possible lineup || Credit: Sofascore

Match prediction

Arsenal is determined to avenge its earlier loss to Lens this season. Despite a less-than-stellar performance in their previous encounter, the Gunners are expected to be in top form, especially when playing in front of their home fans.

Betting Tips for Arsenal vs RC Lens

Tip 1: Match Result - Bet on Arsenal to win.

Tip 2: Total Goals Over/Under - Consider betting on over 1.5 goals in the game.

Where to watch the match

Nigerian football fans can enjoy the live match action through various streaming platforms accessible in Nigeria, such as SuperSport and DStv. The coverage is set to commence at 9 pm WAT.

Stay engaged with Pulse Sports on Twitter and Facebook to receive immediate updates before, during, and after the match.

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