The first goal will be crucial.
Beyond crucial. If Arsenal score it, they have a chance. If Chelsea get it, game over.
In the Champions League, Arsenal had a harder game against Liege on Tuesday than Chelsea had in Porto. Since Porto and Chelsea had already qualified, both played in second gear. Arsenal cruised as well but their game took more out of them.
Who will Arsenal’s striker be today? Who will their left back be? Traore can’t defend and Wenger has said Eboue can play there. Managers always think about the next game and the next months, which is a good argument for playing Traore
Talking to Gooner pals in the last four days, several think Arsenal could be hammered. Others are convinced that, whatever happens, Arsenal won’t be hammered. Some even reckon it will be close and Arsenal could win.
Cesc Fabregas, a realist, said it’s not so much a must-win game, more of a let’s-not-lose game, which gives ANR readers a bigger clue to the contest than anything I can say.
Carlo Ancelotti, being an Italian coach like Capello, likes to control a game. With a physically powerful and experienced team, Chelsea can control most of their games but they have some off-days. Ancelotti rested Essien in Porto and that tells you how important he thinks Essien will be in this game.
Chelsea have more power than Arsenal and better concentration. Being mature players, they can all concentrate. They are physically tougher, mentally tougher, and know they can win trophies. Last season I only went to Chelsea once. I’ve forgotten which game it was but I remember thinking, “Ashley Cole is still better than Clichy.”
Talking to a mate on Saturday morning, he interrupted me.
I said, “If it’s 0-0 after 70 minutes -“
He said, “If it’s 0-0 after 70 minutes, it’s because Chelsea haven’t turned up.”
Still, I’ve had an interesting week, I’m in a good mood today, and, like millions of football fans, I’m looking forward to a game that might confirm what I think I know. The whole world is aware that Arsenal have no left back. But if Gallas plays, and Song plays the game of his life, Arsenal have a chance.
Football is unpredictable and if Arsenal win it will be massive news. A result that would resonate and justify the club’s strategy. The bookies will lose millions but they won’t mind that. A lot of bookies are Gooners.