Arsenal welcome Olympiacos to North London with momentum firmly on their side after a dramatic late win over Newcastle in the Premier League. The Gunners also began their Champions League campaign with a 2-0 triumph over Athletic Bilbao, extending their superb European home record.
Mikel Arteta’s men have now won 13 straight home group-stage games in the Champions League, including 10 without conceding. With Bukayo Saka, Viktor Gyökeres and Gabriel Martinelli leading the attack, Arsenal are set up to dominate from the first whistle. Their ability to score early, combined with Olympiacos’ struggles away from home, tilts the opening 45 minutes heavily in favour of the hosts.
Olympiacos’ away woes
Olympiacos may sit top of the Greek Super League, but their Champions League form tells a different story. The 0-0 draw against Pafos on matchday one was their 19th failure to win in 21 European group-stage matches, while they have lost each of their last 10 away games at this level.
Even with experienced players like Daniel Podence and Chiquinho, the visitors rarely impose themselves early in matches. Their lack of cutting edge was evident against Pafos despite 69% possession and 18 shots. Against Arsenal’s pressing intensity, Olympiacos could struggle to keep the scoreline level by half time.
Prediction: First Half – 1
Arsenal’s fast starts at home and Olympiacos’ long-running away troubles in Europe point clearly to one outcome. The safest bet is Arsenal to lead at half time (First Half – 1), with the Gunners expected to seize control early at the Emirates.
