Battle of the Titans: A Clash of Styles – RC Lens v Arsenal Pre-Match Report

Pre-Match Report: Lens vs Arsenal

Positive Start for Arsenal

Arsenal will be heading to RC Lens for their UEFA Champions League group stage match on Tuesday night, looking to continue their positive start in the tournament. In their first group match, Arsenal defeated PSV Eindhoven 4-0, showcasing their attacking prowess. On the other hand, Lens managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Sevilla, coming from behind.

Lens Turning a Corner

Lens had a disappointing start to their Ligue 1 season, failing to win any of their first five games. However, they have now won back-to-back matches, indicating that they might have turned a corner. With a 1-0 win over Strasbourg and a 2-1 victory against Toulouse, Lens seems to be regaining their confidence. Despite their recent improvement, Lens currently sits 15th in Ligue 1.

Impressive Performance Last Season

Arteta, Arsenal‘s manager, expressed his admiration for Lens’ performance last season, where they unexpectedly became title contenders in France. Arteta acknowledged the challenge that Lens presents and emphasized their quality as a team.

Manager Haise’s Perspective

Lens’ head coach, Franck Haise, recognizes that Arsenal is superior in the group but believes that his team should not compare themselves. Haise acknowledges Arsenal‘s experience, quality, and past success but states that Lens has faced strong opponents like Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1 and has achieved positive results.

Tactics and Key Players

Lens’ Tactical Approach

Lens typically utilizes a 3-4-2-1 formation, with their attacking midfielders dropping into narrow positions when they lose possession. Their defensive organization can make it difficult for opponents to break them down. Lens prefers a mid-to-low block and applies pressure to the man on the ball. They can quickly transition into fast-paced counter-attacks, with an average speed of 1.98m/sec, making them one of the fastest teams in France’s top-flight.

Key Players to Watch

Elye Wahi, Lens’ new striker, has shown promise with his sharp movement, good pace, and ability to score with both feet and his head. Lens’ wide central defenders, especially Facundo Medina, contribute to the team’s progressive style of play and frequently link up with wing backs Przemyslaw Frankowski and Deiver Machado.

Creating Chances Despite Results

Despite their underwhelming results early in the season, Lens has managed to create numerous goal-scoring opportunities. Only Paris Saint-Germain has had more shots from open play than Lens in Ligue 1, indicating their attacking threat.

Team News

Arsenal will welcome back Thomas Partey after his six-game absence due to injury. Bukayo Saka is also fit to be included in the squad following his substitution in the 4-0 victory over Bournemouth. On the other hand, Lens will be without David Costa, Jimmy Chabot, Massadio Haidara, and potentially Wuilker Farinez.

Facts and Stats

• Arsenal‘s first-ever Champions League game was against Lens 25 years ago, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
• Arsenal is undefeated in their last nine Champions League group stage games (W7 D2).
• Lens’ striker Elye Wahi had the most shots following a ball carry in the first matchday of this season’s UEFA Champions League.
• Arsenal‘s Gabriel Jesus has been involved in 15 goals in his last 15 Champions League starts.

Match Officials

The game will be officiated by Marco Guida, who has already shown a red card in the Champions League this season. He will be assisted by Filippo Meli and Giorgio Peretti. The VAR will be overseen by Paolo Valeri along with assistant VAR Michael Fabbri.

Historical Significance

Arsenal and Lens both made their Champions League debuts on the same night in 1998. They played each other in front of a crowd of 36,000, resulting in a 1-1 draw with goals from Marc Overmars and Tony Vaireilles.

How to Watch

The match will be live-streamed with commentary from Russ Hargreaves and former Arsenal player Jeremie Aliadiere. Nick Bright and Adrian Clarke will provide a pre-match analysis and preview from the My Arsenal Rewards box at Emirates Stadium.

For more information on how to watch the game in your country, please refer to the official channels broadcasting the match.

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