Arsenal vs Dinamo Zagreb Preview
- Arsenal to win
- Martinelli to score or assist
Arsenal host Dinamo Zagreb in a crucial UEFA Champions League (UCL) clash, with the Gunners aiming to solidify their top-eight position and Dinamo seeking to keep their knockout play-off hopes alive. Here’s a detailed preview of the encounter.
Arsenal: Aiming to Bounce Back
Arsenal head into this fixture on the back of a disappointing 2-2 draw with Aston Villa in the Premier League, where defensive lapses cost them dearly.
Manager Mikel Arteta has expressed dissatisfaction with his backline, which will be further tested in the absence of William Saliba.
Despite recent struggles, Arsenal’s UCL form at the Emirates has been stellar, with seven home clean sheets and the most home wins in the competition since last season.
Key Stats:
- Defensive Record: Yet to concede a goal from open play in the UCL this season.
- Home Fortress: Seven consecutive UCL home wins since last season.
Key Player
Gabriel Martinelli: With Bukayo Saka still unavailable, Martinelli has the opportunity to shine. Arsenal are unbeaten in the last 38 matches he’s scored in, making him a crucial figure in their attacking lineup.
Dinamo Zagreb: Fighting for Survival
Dinamo Zagreb have endured a tough season, prompting a managerial change with Fabio Cannavaro taking over. The Croatian champions have been inconsistent, winning just one of their last eight matches before their winter break.
However, Cannavaro’s arrival and back-to-back UCL away wins provide a glimmer of hope as they aim to make history by claiming their first-ever away win against English opposition in this competition.
Key Stats
- Away Form: Two consecutive UCL away wins, a record improvement for the club.
- Challenge Ahead: No wins in four prior UCL visits to England (D1, L3).
Key Player
Sandro Kulenović: The forward has scored three UCL away goals this term, and another strike will see him tie Dinamo’s record for away goals in a single European campaign.
Tactical Analysis
Arsenal
The Gunners will look to dominate possession and exploit Dinamo’s defensive vulnerabilities through quick transitions and wide play.
Martinelli’s pace and directness could be pivotal, especially with Saka unavailable. Arteta will also demand defensive discipline, with Rice likely to shield a backline missing Saliba.
Dinamo Zagreb
Cannavaro may set up defensively, aiming to frustrate Arsenal and strike on the counter. Kulenović’s form will be vital, as Dinamo look to exploit set-piece opportunities and capitalize on Arsenal’s defensive uncertainty.
Prediction: Arsenal’s Edge
Despite Dinamo Zagreb’s improved away form, Arsenal’s home record in the UCL and their superior quality should see them prevail. Dinamo may put up a spirited fight under Cannavaro’s guidance, but Arsenal’s attacking depth and Emirates dominance should prove too much.
Predicted Score: Arsenal 3-1 Dinamo Zagreb
Key Match Facts
- Arsenal have kept seven clean sheets in their last eight UCL home games.
- Dinamo Zagreb are seeking their first-ever UCL away win against English opposition.
- Gabriel Martinelli’s goals have coincided with a 38-match unbeaten run for Arsenal.
- Sandro Kulenović is just one goal shy of equalling Dinamo’s record for away goals in a single European season.
For more info on this game, you may also visit:
Arsenal vs GNK Dinamo | UEFA Champions League 2024/25