Barcelona v Arsenal Preview
Barcelona host Arsenal at Nou Camp Tuesday night in the second leg of their last 16 Champions League tie. The Gunners beat the Spanish giants 2-1 in the first leg but Barcelona is favoured to win this match.
It’s a repeat of last year’s final 16 clash. Barcelona won 4-1 last year and Arsenal have beaten the Spanish side just once in six fixtures. Barcelona played well at the Emirates two weeks ago but suffered the defeat and will be hoping Lionel Messi keeps his current brilliant form. Messi had four goals against Arsenal at Nou Camp last year and has 43 on the season. He has 5/2 odds at Paddy Powder to score first on Tuesday. The La Liga leaders have also received good production from David Villa, who has 3/1 odds to score first.
Barcelona will be without their defensive stalwarts Carles Puyol (injury) and Gerard Pique (suspension). Arsenal should be backed to get on the board after scoring at least one away goal in all six matches against Barcelona. But, they will most likely be without Robin Van Persie and Theo Walcott due to injuries. Cesc Fabregas and Jack Wilshere should play. Expect Barcelona to take advantage with defensive midfielder Alex Song out. The Spaniards have scored 20 goals in their last seven Champions League matches. If Pedro scores the last goal, Paddy Powder will refund all losing first and last goalscorer, correct score and scorecast singles on the match.
Arsenal are hoping Nicklas Bendtner can fill the void on offense. He is worth backing with 13/5 odds at Paddy Powder to score anytime. The Gunners have hit a skid lately with a loss to Birmingham in the Carling Cup final and a failing to beat Sunderland in the Premiere League. Barcelona look to be too much for Arsenal since they are unbeaten in 20 matches at home and have won all four of their La Liga matches.
Barcelona v Arsenal Match Odds (supplied by Paddy Powder)
Barcelona: 1/3
Draw: 9/2
Arsenal: 15/2