Football prediction Arsenal vs Lens: Sure to advance

Arsenal need a win or a draw against Lens to qualify for the Champions League. At the moment, coach Mikel Arteta's team has 9 points, 4 points more than the 2 teams behind, PSV Eindhoven and Lens. Thus, a win against Lens will ensure Arsenal tops the table. That is the biggest motivation for the Gunners.

Gabriel Jesus and his teammates probably can't forget the disastrous reverse defeat in France. That was Arsenal's only defeat in the European arena after 4 matches this season.

Lens are not playing as well as last season, but they are still among the top teams in Ligue 1. The French representative continues to show their annoying style of play with neat combinations.

However, playing away at the Emirates is a very different experience, especially for a team that often loses away like Lens. Coach Pascal Gastien has no reason to take risks when playing away from home. Lens will choose to sit back and defend tightly. With a good physical foundation, "running a lot to play tactics" is within the players' ability.

Lens knows that PSV Eindhoven are the main opponents in the race for the second place in Group B, and the result against Arsenal could make a big difference. Therefore, a point is a suitable target for Wahi and his teammates. Arsenal are not in a hurry, a point is enough for them to continue, there is no need to take risks if the match develops abnormally.

Arsenal vs Lens squad information

Arsenal will be without a number of injured players, including Thomas Partey (thigh), Jurrien Timber (knee) and Emile Smith Rowe (knee). However, David Raya and Fabio Vieira are ready to return after sitting out the win over Brentford. Aaron Ramsdale's underwhelming display has Arsenal fans hoping David Raya returns to goal.

On the other side of the front line, Lens will be without Morgan Guilavogui after he received a red card in the previous match. Jimmy Cabot and Wuilker Farinez are out long-term due to ligament injuries. Elya Wahi is ready to come on if trusted. Kevin Danso returns from injury but Deiver Machado is still open to playing.

Arsenal vs Lens form

In the UEFA Champions League, Arsenal won 3 matches and lost 1 match. The only defeat was the first leg against Lens, which was also Lens' only win. The French team drew 2 matches and lost 1 match in the remaining 3 matches.

In the domestic league, Arsenal have a record of 3 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss in the last 5 matches. They have just won the top spot in the Premier League. Lens have played a little better with 3 wins and 2 draws, gradually approaching the leading group of Ligue 1.