Prediction: Arsenal vs Chelsea

20th April 2012

While the shock defeat to Wigan did serve as a blow to Arsenal’s Champions League hopes, the loss didn’t prove too costly as the Gunners can virtually ensure a top 4 finish with a win over Chelsea. Some would say that is easier said than done considering the Blues’ current form, but I believe the hard-fought victory over Barcelona has left the team physically and emotionally exhausted.

This season has been a real rollercoaster ride for Arsenal and everybody at the club is hoping for a happy ending. The home defeat to relegation-threatened Wigan was hardly a step in the right direction, but Arsene Wenger’s side, nonetheless, remained in 3rd place and well clear of their top 4 rivals. The Gunners have played one game more than Tottenham, Newcastle and Chelsea, but the five-point advantage should ensure them a calm finish, especially if they can beat their local rivals. The hosts have plenty of reasons for optimism in spite of the Wigan setback, with one being the seven-match wining run at the Emirates that came to an abrupt end at the weekend. Unlike their rivals, Arsenal players will have had full week to prepare for the all-important clash and that should give them an extra edge as well. Arsene Wenger will rue the fact that Mikel Arteta has been ruled out for the season through injury, but he will have Laurent Koscielny, Abou Diaby and Francis Coquelin back to the squad.

Chelsea are the talk of the town following an incredible string of performances under Roberto Di Matteo, with the 1-0 victory over mighty Barcelona probably the highlight of the season. The Blues may have struggled to match their more illustrious opponents when it came to ball possession, but amazing defensive performance helped keep players like Messi, Sanchez and Fabregas at bay, while one counterattack proved enough for the invaluable victory. There are no doubts the players’ confidence will be at an all time high after such a breathtaking victory and if this match was played few days later, I would have no problems backing Chelsea for the win. But, with the game at the Emirates coming just three days after the draining match against the world’s best side, I have no choice but to go for Arsenal. Even if Roberto Di Matteo is set to introduce several fresh players, the Blues will need a miracle to produce a strong performance at the Emirates, especially as Didier Drogba and Branislav Ivanovic miss out through injury and suspension respectively.

Conclusion

Chelsea are clearly in better form of the two at the moment, but that is unlikely to prove enough for a positive result at the Emirates. It will be incredibly difficult for the Blues to find enough energy to match well-rested Arsenal after such a tough game against Barcelona, while one shouldn’t forget the Gunners have won seven straight home games before the Wigan defeat.

Verdict: Home win Arsenal (1)

Best Odds: 21/20

Bookmaker: William Hill