Arsenal and Leicester City came to this match with contrasting moods. The Gunners won their last four matches in all competitions; scored 10 and only conceded one in the process. Oppositely, the Foxes only won once in their recent five games, including an FA Cup exit from Chelsea.
With only five points difference from fifth-placed Manchester United, Arsenal were in a need of a win to climb up in the Premier League and get closer to the European zone. Their mission started well, credit to the first-half strike by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. However, Eddie Nketiah’s expulsion proved too costly for the home side. Leicester capitalised on the one-man advantage and managed to equalise late in the game. Without further ado, this tactical analysis will inform you how the match unfolded.
Lineups
Mikel Arteta once again lined up his team in 3–4–3, a shape which helped his team to win their previous three matches. The trio of Shkodran Mustafi, David Luiz, and Sead Kolašinac was chosen to start in the heart of Arsenal’s defence. In front of them, Dani Ceballos and Granit Xhaka provided support and balance for the home side. Talisman Alexandre Lacazette led the frontline with Bukayo Saka and Aubameyang next to him. Meanwhile, their dugout was filled by names like Lucas Torreira, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Joe Willock, and Nketiah.
Oppositely, Brendan Rodgers somehow picked up the similar 3–4–3 formation. In fact, Leicester previously have only played about 366 league minutes in a back-three/back-five system. The regular duet of Jonny Evans and Çağlar Söyüncü was supported by first-time starter Ryan Bennett in front of Kasper Schmeichel. Up top, marksman Jamie Vardy was flanked by Ayoze Pérez and Kelechi Ịheanachọ to break Arsenal’s defence. Names like Demarai Gray, Harvey Barnes, Dennis Praet, and veteran Christian Fuchs had to start the game from the bench.
