Arsenal heads to the BayArena to take on Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 matchup. The Premier League leaders aim to secure an advantage ahead of the return fixture at the Emirates, keeping their quadruple ambitions alive.
Match Details
The clash kicks off at 5:45 p.m. GMT at the BayArena.
How to Watch
Fans can catch the live broadcast on TNT Sports 3. Streaming options include the TNT Sports website and Discovery+ app for subscribers.
Prediction
Leverkusen has delivered notable Champions League performances, posing a challenge for Arsenal. However, Arsenal’s superior form, particularly in defense, positions them well for a favorable outcome. Score prediction: Leverkusen 1-1 Arsenal.
Predicted Lineups
Leverkusen XI: Blaswich; Andrich, Quansah, Tapsoba; Poku, Garcia, Fernandez, Grimaldo; Maza, Kofane, Terrier.
Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Zubimendi, Rice, Eze; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli.
Arsenal Team News
Manager Mikel Arteta confirms center-back William Saliba returns after an ankle injury sidelined him for the last two matches, strengthening the defense. Captain Martin Odegaard misses the first leg. Riccardo Calafiori and Leandro Trossard remain possibilities, while Gabriel Magalhaes, Declan Rice, and Martín Zubimendi are all available.
Leverkusen Team News
The hosts contend with absences including Mark Flekken, Loic Bade, Lucas Vazquez, and Patrik Schick.
Team Background
Arsenal tops the Premier League, reaches the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City, and advances to the FA Cup quarter-finals versus Southampton. They chase an unprecedented quadruple.
Leverkusen sits sixth in the Bundesliga under manager Kasper Hjulmand, following the sale of key players like Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong. They finished 16th in the Champions League league phase with away victories over Manchester City and Benfica but suffered a 7-2 defeat to PSG. A 2-0 play-off win over Olympiacos secured their last-16 spot.
