Champions League: Arsenal, Atlético, Barcelona, and Napoli To Kick Off Matchday 3
by Geoffrey Ejiga | by Cydias Aujard
Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid
The world is tuning in to the Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid clash, and it's not for the reasons you'll expect. For some, this game will either be an all-timer or the biggest snooze fest ever. Yet, most football fans already expect a low-scoring game with few big chances and a lot of defensive display. And that's exactly what's intriguing.
See our football expert's best Arsenal vs Atlético Madrid prediction.
Arteta and Simione are labeled two of the most pragmatic, defensive coaches in football today, and that's no exaggeration. Just this season, Arsenal have only conceded one goal from open play over a whopping 11 matches. Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid has recorded the third-highest draws in La Liga so far.
Even over their last three meetings in the past decade, two games ended in 1-1 draws by full time, and Atléti took a 1-0 victory in the other game. Pundits expect a similar scoreline or possibly a no-goals encounter.
Barcelona vs Olympiacos
At home against a Greek side, you can only back Barcelona for the win. However, this game could be a rocky one, even if the Spanish champions end up winning. The problem for Barcelona would be handling rotations for this game, as they face Real Madrid this weekend.
And with the likes of Joan Garcia, Raphinha, Gavi, Olmo, and Lewandowski all missing due to injuries, Barca would likely rest Rashford, Lamine, and Pedri later on in the game or start off without them. We’ve analyzed this game, and in our Barcelona vs Olympiacos prediction you can find the sharp forecasts.
Moreover, with Barca struggling to win their most recent games, which is due to both fatigue and adaptation to Flick’s high-line playing style, it won't be a surprise if Olympiacos nets a goal. Olympiacos scored in nine of their last ten away games, and in their last away game against Barca.
PSV vs Napoli
While it's not the headline match of the day, the game between PSV and Napoli would undoubtedly be one of the most interesting. Although Napoli is arguably the better side, the Netherlands champions have all it takes to win all three points in their backyard. Check out our PSV vs Napoli prediction to find our more info.
PSV are also more desperate for the win here, as all three points could mathematically place them in the qualification playoffs. The home side has taken only one point in the Champions League, after losing the opening game to USG (3-1) before drawing the next to Leverkusen away (1-1).
On the other hand, Napoli suffered a 2-0 loss at the hands of Man City, but quickly bounced back with a 2-1 victory over Sporting CP. Not only have the Italians performed better, but they also boast of a superior line-up, featuring the in-form Kevin De Bruyne and Rasmus Højlund. Still, with PSV winning their last two meetings in Europe, Napoli must be cautious and may be happy to walk away with a draw.
