Gameweek 15 in the English Premier League is set to feature a highly anticipated match between the first-placed Arsenal and third-placed Aston Villa. Arsenal have been very desperate and are trying their best to win the league this season. And the vulnerable form of Liverpool and Manchester City added an extra advantage for the Gunners and created a great opportunity to win the league title after so long. Arsenal are now at the top of the table with 33 points, 5 points ahead of Man City. But the Gunners will face a real challenge tomorrow when they play away against Aston Villa, who are in excellent form. Aston Villa have won all their last four games in the league, and a win against Arsenal would see them move to the 2nd place in the league table.
Stats & Facts
- In a total of 56 meetings, Arsenal won 32 matches against Aston Villa, while the Villans won only 10.
- But since the return to the EPL in 2019, Aston Villa have won 5 of their last 12 games against the Gunners.
- Villa Park has been a fortress for Aston Villa as they have lost only one of their last 25 home matches. However, Arsenal were the last team to defeat Aston Villa at Villa Park in August last year.
- Arsenal have lost only one of their previous 21 matches away from home in the league.
- Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins has scored 6 goals in 10 matches against Arsenal.
Team News
The win against Burnley was costly for Arsenal as they got two injuries in this match. Defender Cristhian Mosquera picked up an ankle injury and left the pitch in the first half, while Declan Rice also got a knock on his calf. However, Mikel Arteta confirmed that Rice should be fine and available for the game. Defender Gabriel is also out of the team due to a thigh injury, while Kai Havertz is not likely to return before Christmas.
As for Aston Villa, World Champion Emiliano Martinez will miss the match against his former club due to his back injury, while Ross Barkley and Tyrone Mings will be out of the squad for the rest of the year.
Possible Lineup for Aston Villa:
Bizot; Cash, Konsa, Torres, Digne; Kamara, Tielemans; Buendia, McGinn, Rogers; Watkins
Possible Lineup for Arsenal:
Raya; White, Timber, Hincapie, Calafiori; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Merino; Saka, Gyokeres, Eze
Prediction: Aston Villa 1-1 Arsenal
Although Arsenal are the favorite this season to win the league, it’s likely to be a competitive match since Aston Villa have been solid in their recent matches. Moreover, the Villans will have the home advantage, which can prevent Arsenal from getting full points. Arsenal have a great attacking lineup. So, Aston Villa have to maintain a rock-solid defense to earn points at Villa Park.
Betfair Odds
Aston Villa: 4.25
Draw: 3.51
Arsenal: 1.90
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