Zico`s boys are very close to qualify among the last 16, needing only 1 point from their encounter with Arsenal, from Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium. They recorded 2 wins in their previous home games, against Standard and Alkmaae, after some solid performances. Coach Zico stated the team will not play for a draw, and they will try to take full advantage from Arsenal`s situation. Oly is facing some squad problems, most important missing being the ones of Ledesma, Diogo and Zewlakow, along with the biggest blow, Soltidis. Also, maroccan Zairi is doubtful. With all these missing players, Oly still have some fire power left, young striker Mitroglu being on fire, and if we think he`s helped by players like Maresca, Dudu or Galletti, the concerns shouldn`t be to high.
Arsenal
Arsenal is topping the group and they can`t lose their position, regardless the outcome of this game. Arsenal`s huge injury list is well known to everybody. Moreover, Wenger said he must give his players a rest, so he called no more than 10 teenagers for this game. It is known Arsenal has a young squad but this will be the youngest squad to represent Arsenal in the European competitions ever. The only familiar faces who will travel to Athens are Vela, Walcott, Mannone, Fabianski, Ramsey, Song and Silvestre, along with Wilkshire and Merida who managed to play few minutes for Arsenal this season. Walcott just recovered from an injury so he probably won`t play the whole game.
Home win
Under these circumstances, Olympiakos must be huge favorite to win this game. I will take them, but with medium stakes only. If nothing unusual happens, they shouldn`t have many problems with this Arsenal team, but I`m a little afraid if some early goal will not occur, maybe the greeks will not take further risks and settle for a draw.
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Prediction:
Tip: 1
Odd: 2.10
Bookie: Bet365
Stake: 6 /10
Tipster: Kather
