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. So, if Arsenal wins against Lens, they will definitely be at the top of the table. That is the biggest motivation for the Gunners.

Gabriel Jesus and his teammates probably can't forget the disastrous 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 playing style with neat combinations.

However, playing away at 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 be tactical" is within the players' ability.

Lens understands that the main rival in the race for the second place in Group B is PSV Eindhoven, the result when facing Arsenal can make a big difference. Therefore, a point is a suitable target for Wahi and his teammates. Even Arsenal is not in a hurry, 1 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 players due to injury, including Thomas Partey (thigh), Jurrien Timber (knee), Emile Smith Rowe (knee). However, David Raya and Fabio Vieira are ready to return after being sidelined in the win over Brentford. Aaron Ramsdale's unconvincing performance has Arsenal fans hoping David Raya can return to goal.

On the other side, Lens will be without Morgan Guilavogui after he received a red card in the previous match. Jimmy Cabot and Wuilker Farinez are long-term absentees due to ligament injuries. Elya Wahi is ready to come in 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 and lost 1. The only defeat was against Lens in the first leg, which was also Lens' only win. The French team drew 2 and lost 1 in the remaining 3 matches.

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