The North London based club produced a masterclass against PSV in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 and will look to finish the job at the Emirates Stadium on March 12, 2025. Africa Football editor Bill Eshun looks into the upcoming match and provides his prediction of the outcome.
Key Facts
- The Gunners recorded their biggest UEFA Champions League win ever in the first leg against PSV.
- PSV last defeated Arsenal in the Europa League in 2022.
Match Overview
It was a bloodbath in the Netherlands during the first leg, with Mikel Arteta’s side scoring an unprecedented seven goals to PSV’s one. Given the ongoing debate about Arsenal lacking a true number nine, that victory was a major confidence boost for the team. A place in the quarterfinals now seems like a mere formality, and the key question will be how many goals the hosts can score in front of their own fans and what the final aggregate scoreline will look like.
Thomas Partey on Hand to Start
The Ghanaian superstar is expected to play a key role for the Gunners, as he has done all season.
The 31-year-old has made nine appearances in the competition this season and, although he is yet to find the net, he has been influential—recording 12 shot-creation actions and two goal-creation actions, showcasing his attacking qualities from the heart of midfield.
Related article: Will Partey Stay in London? Salary and Prospects of the Ghanaian Midfielder
The Odds
Arsenal’s chances of winning are currently priced at 1.43 according to 1xBet, while PSV’s odds stand at 8.15. A draw is priced at 4.97.
Prediction
The Gunners are expected to win this comfortably. PSV have struggled in recent games, and judging by the first leg, they have little chance of getting anything out of this one.
Predicted Scoreline: Arsenal 3-0 PSV