Sporting CP v Arsenal prediction and team news | Who will win Europa League game?
Arsenal will be without some attacking options in the Europa League round of 16 first leg against Sporting Lisbon.
Leandro Trossard picked up a minor groin injury in last Saturday’s dramatic win over Bournemouth, Eddie Nketiah is likely to miss a second straight game with a stroke while Gabriel Jesus could travel with the squad but is highly unlikely.
Reiss Nelson will be hoping to start after coming on from the bench to earn the last-gasp win against the Cherries, although Emile Smith Rowe is also struggling for the eleven as he builds his fitness.
Matt Turner, Ben White, Kieran Tierney and Jorginho could also be there from the off as Mikel Arteta considers changes ahead of Sunday’s Premier League trip to Fulham.
Sporting director Rúben Amorim lacks options in midfield with Manuel Ugarte suspended and Daniel Braganca sidelined with a protracted knee injury.
RadioTimes.com brings you our predictions and team news for Sporting CP v Arsenal.
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When does Sporting CP play Arsenal?
Sporting CP vs Arsenal will kick off at 5:45 p.m At Thursday, March 9, 2023.
Check out our live football on TV guide for the latest times and information.
Sporting CP v Arsenal team news
Sporting CP predicted lineup: Adam; Inacio, Coates, St Juste; Esgaio, Tanlongo, Morita, Rice; Edwards, Paulinho, Goncalves
Arsenal predicted line-up: gymnast; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Tierney; Xhaka, Jorginho; Saka, Odegaard, Smith Rowe; Martinelli
Prediction of Sporting CP vs Arsenal
Arsenal were tight at the back in the Europa League group stage, conceding just three goals in six games – and Mikel Arteta will be looking for a solid defensive display after twice leaking against Bournemouth last Saturday.
The possible absences of Leandro Trossard and Eddie Nketiah are concerns but the Gunners should still have enough to find the back of the net, especially as Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka are in decent form.
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The struggle in midfield could prove crucial as Sporting are light in the engine room so Granit Xhaka and Jorginho are happy to take over the game.
Sporting are usually good on their own two feet, but they failed against Porto and were thwarted by FC Midtjylland at the Estádio José Alvalade last month. Arsenal hope for a win.
Our prediction: Sporting CP 0-1 Arsenal (14/1 at bet365)
Sporting CP vs Arsenal Odds
In collaboration with RadioTimes.combet365 has provided the following betting odds for this event:
Sporting CP (7/2) Draw (11/4) Arsenal (8/11)*
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