Arsenal need to score at least three goals against AS Monaco to progress to the Champions League quarter-finals. Considering their opponents’ superb defensive record, do the Gunners stand any chance?
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The signs don’t look good for Arsenal.
Despite their superb attacking display against West Ham United in the Premier League at the weekend, Arsene Wenger’s side will face a much sturdier backline at the Stade Louis II.
Consider the stats…
Monaco have the best defensive record in the Champions League, having conceded only two goals in their last seven matches. Putting that into perspective, Arsenal would need to score more against Monaco in one away match than Les Rouges et Blancs have conceded in their last seven European matches.
In Ligue 1 their backline is similarly sturdy. They’ve conceded only one goal in their last 12 home matches, despite welcoming Paris Saint-Germain, Olympique Lyonnais and Olympique Marseille to the principality.
That’s a run that stretches back to November 22, in which time Monaco have conceded only four goals in all competitions.
Finally, the back four that contested the first leg in London-Almamy Toure, Wallace, Aymen Abdennour and Elderson Echiejile-will be bolstered by the returning Ricardo Carvalho, Andrea Raggi and Layvin Kurzawa.
Do Arsenal stand any chance of scoring three?