It proved to be a tough game, not only because CSKA worked hard and denied Arsenal time on the ball, but because Arsenal failed to establish a foothold in the game until the hour mark.
What Arsenal Need:Arsenal need to work hard for the full 90 minutes, to challenge for every 50:50 ball and to defend set pieces well.
Arsenal underperformed for the the first hour.
They conceded from a set piece, which I predicted would be a danger.
Things To Watch Out For:Wenger has suggested that the pitch has been cut up quite heavily by a recent tournament and it's going to be cold. Neither of these factors contribute to Arsenal's style of play so it'll be interesting to see how they cope with the conditions.
Apparently Arsenal didn't train on the pitch yesterday. I think they struggled tonight as a result. The surface was hard and slick and the Gunners' usual slick passing and control deserted them for long periods.
Hopes For The Match:A tough and gritty performance should be enough to secure the three points.
Arsenal lost this match due to a poor performance in the first hour, during which they conceded and failed to compete in midfield.
I hope Wenger plays the 4-5-1 formation that was so successful last season. I would use Van Persie as a wide player in the 5 man midfield. He's in such good form at the moment he deserves to be on the pitch. He played as a wide player for Holland in the World Cup and was comfortable in that role.
Henry
Rosicky, Gilberto, Fabregas, Hleb, van Persie
Gallas, Djourou, Toure, Hoyte
Lehmann
Wenger did play a 4-5-1, using the exact personnel I predicted but sadly they underperformed.
Fabregas struggled in the first hour but took control for the last third of the match. Gilberto and Hleb gave possession away far too often and the usual Arsenal movement went missing at times.
Prediction: CSKA Moscow 0 Arsenal 1
Score: CSKA Moscow 1 Arsenal 0
