Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Champions League match.
SK Slavia Prague
Over the first three rounds of the UEFA Champions League league stage, SK Slavia Prague scored only two goals — both came in the opening match against FK Bodø/Glimt (2:2), where the Norwegians came back late. In the matches with Inter Milan and Atalanta BC, the Czech side totalled 0.84 xG — they struggled to create chances in the opposition area. Surprisingly, they have also had conversion issues domestically — in the second half of October there were goalless draws with Zlín and SK Sigma Olomouc (both — 0:0).
Arsenal
Arsenal are exceptionally consistent at this stage of the season — against Burnley (2:0) they recorded a seventh straight clean-sheet win. In the Champions League, the London club have yet to concede — they beat Athletic Bilbao and Olympiacos Piraeus (both 2:0) and Atlético de Madrid (4:0). Possibly without Martín Zubimendi (suspension for yellow cards), the visitors may avoid undue risk in progressing attacks — a minimal win built on reliable defence would suit them.
SK Slavia Prague vs Arsenal Prediction
In spring 2021, SK Slavia Prague looked good at Emirates Stadium against Arsenal in the UEFA Europa League play-offs (1:1), but then lost a clean sheet at home (0:4). We are confident the difference in quality will show quickly — the visitors should win to nil.
