Arsenal v BATE Borisov: Match Preview, Team News, Predicted XI

Arsenal v BATE Borisov: Match Preview, Team News, Predicted XI | Europa League 2018-19

Modified Feb 25, 2019 19:06 GMT

Will Arsenal be the first major casualty in the round of 16 fixtures of the Europa league?

Last midweek saw one of the biggest upsets of the season so far when the Belarusian club BATE Borisov stunned Arsenal at their home in the Borisov Arena. The 1-0 victory at home put themselves in pole position to qualify to the quarterfinals of this competition for the very first time in their history.

Arsenal had a day to forget last midweek in Belarus even though they dominated the stats. The Gunners though will have everything to play for at the Emirates, as they look to overturn their first-leg defeat to qualify to the quarterfinals of the competition.

BATE Borisov is still in their preseason with the Belarusian league still a month to go. BATE will be playing only their second competitive fixture since mid-December and will look to hold on to their single goal advantage.

Team News

Arsenal

Alexandre Lacazette remains the only absentee in the Arsenal squad after the French striker was given the marching orders in the first leg of this fixture.

The non-presence of Mesut Ozil in the starting XI will be a major question among their supporters, with Unai Emery keeping the German magician out of the team in crunch matches.

Midfielder Aaron Ramsey and centre-back Sokratis Papastathopoulos are also expected to feature in this game.

BATE Borisov

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BATE Borisov have no major injury concerns or suspensions to worry about. Former Arsenal man Alexander Hleb is once again likely to start the match for the Belarusian side.