| Arsenal vs Porto | |
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MATCH INFO |
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MATCH :
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Arsenal vs Porto
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COMPETITION :
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UEFA Champions League
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| DATE: |
13-03-2024
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TIME:
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01.30 AM IST (UTC +5:30)
12.00 AM UAE
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STADIUM
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Emirates Stadium
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Predicted Lineups
Porto possible starting lineup:
Costa; Mario, Pepe, Otavio, Sanchez; Varela, Gonzalez; Conceicao, Pepe, Galeno; Evanilson
Arsenal possible starting lineup:
Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Kiwior; Odegaard, Rice, Havertz; Saka, Trossard, Martinelli
Porto celebrated a hard-fought victory over Estrela during the weekend, yet the triumph was somewhat marred by a significant setback for left-back Zaidu Sanusi. Sanusi endured a devastating complete anterior cruciate ligament rupture, sidelining the Nigerian for the remainder of the season. Adding to Porto's defensive woes, Ivan Marcano is also grappling with an ACL injury, with slim hopes of returning before the campaign concludes. Consequently, manager Conceicao may turn to Jorge Sanchez to fortify the team's defensive line, which still boasts the seasoned 40-year-old veteran Pepe.
The midfield's stability is also in question, with the availability of pivotal player Stephen Eustaquio uncertain following his absence in the recent victory over Estrela. However, Alan Varela demonstrated resilience by overcoming discomfort to complete the full 90 minutes.
Meanwhile, Porto faces the loss of Mehdi Taremi to an adductor problem, leaving Evanilson to spearhead the attack. Evanilson, with an impressive tally of four goals in five group-stage games and a total of 19 for the 2023-24 season, shoulders the responsibility in Taremi's absence.
On the Arsenal front, Emile Smith Rowe made a timely return from an ankle concern, albeit only securing a place on the bench against Burnley. However, the availability of key players such as Gabriel Jesus (knee), Oleksandr Zinchenko (calf), and Takehiro Tomiyasu (knock) remains uncertain.
Furthermore, Jurrien Timber is recuperating from an ACL injury, although he has been included in Arsenal's squad for the knockout rounds. Additionally, Thomas Partey (thigh) and Fabio Vieira (groin) are nearing comebacks from their respective operations, with Vieira potentially featuring against his former club, albeit likely as a substitute. Manager Arteta is unlikely to make any alterations to his in-form starting lineup barring unforeseen circumstances.