A week ago we were looking forward to an entertaining display of two reputable teams in the race for a place at Wembley Stadium, but Liverpool and Arsenal cancelled each other in a drab goalless draw at Anfield. Tonight, we’ll get an EFL Cup finalist in North London.Another one of Mikel Arteta’s ideas to help improve the culture & show the club’s history around the training ground… All the Arsenal crests are now shown at the entrance as you walk into London Colney.Love it. Absolutely love it. #afc pic.twitter.com/PPEOG5SDF6— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) January 18, 2022 The Gunners were left with ten men after yet another Granit Xhaka sending off midway through the first half, which changed their gameplan to an ultra-defensive setup. Hopefully, with teams equal in terms of numbers – Mikel Arteta’s side will attempt to get a goal or two. After all, two 0-0s from these two sides would be an insult to the sport!The Gunners will be without Thomas Partey, Mohamed Elneny, Nicolas Pepe and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Although the latter returned from Cameroon, he won’t play tonight for all the well-documented reasons.The visitors will have to manage without the services of Divock Origi, Harvey Elliott and Thiago, plus the AFCON contingent – Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Naby Keita.Arsenal were supposed to be tested by bitter rivals Tottenham last weekend, but the match didn’t go ahead due to numerous Covid cases. At least that postponement gave them a bit more time to prepare for this EFL Cup tie. Although this competition isn’t as popular or glamourous as FA Cup, the final is still played and Wembley Stadium and it’s a great chance for the team to lift a trophy – something Arsenal have been desperately lacking lately.𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫#EFL | #CarabaoCup pic.twitter.com/EjTSEZeawB— Carabao Cup (@Carabao_Cup) January 20, 2022 Arteta hailed the atmosphere at Emirates and stated that it could make all the difference against the Reds.”We have the opportunity to get into a final, which is close to a title, against a big opponent, in our stadium, with our people, so we are very excited to play the game. The fans are able to change the energy, the momentum of the game, give a massive lift to the players and give them confidence.”As for us, we can at least hope the two teams will put on a show as Chelsea await their opponents for the final that should be played on 27 February.EFL CUPSemi-final second leg22.45: (3.50) Arsenal (3.45) Liverpool (2.10)***odds are subject to change
