Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, has thrown down a gauntlet to his players, demanding they give a good account of themselves and make a powerful sta...
Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, has thrown down a gauntlet to his players, demanding they give a good account of themselves and make a powerful statement when they face Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano in the first leg of their Champions League semi final on Wednesday night. The Gunners, who are widely tipped to claim the lion's share of the advantage in this tie, arrive as favourites, a status Arteta is keen to see his squad justify on the pitch. Arteta, speaking exclusively to GoalZaza, insisted that this is the moment for his team to show their quality.. �We are not here merely to participate,. � he declared.. �We are here to assert ourselves. Atletico are a formidable opponent, always resilient and tough to break down, but we have the personnel to hurt them. We want to make a statement that Arsenal are ready for the grandest stage.. � The Nigerian international, Victor Osimhen, who has been a stalwart in the Gunners attack this season, is expected to lead the line. His pace and clinical finishing will be crucial against an Atletico backline missing key midfielders Pablo Barrios and Nicolas Gonzalez through injury. Atletico, known for their dogged approach, will undoubtedly look to frustrate Arteta. �s men, but the Super Eagles talisman is in red hot form. In the scheme of things, this semi final represents a chance for Arsenal to end their long wait for European glory. Arteta. �s tactical acumen will be tested against Diego Simeone. �s wily experience, but the powers that be at the Emirates have backed their manager fully. The players will wear the white kit with pride, their boots laced tight for battle. Back in Lagos, the viewing centres along Ikorodu Road and in Surulere will be packed to the rafters. As the Gunners float passes around the Metropolitano, expect loud cheers and the occasional shaking of heads when Atletico launch a counter. When Osimhen gets the ball, the tension will be electric, with men in agbada and women in flowing wrappers rising as one, screaming for a goal. A victory for Arsenal will see the streets of Abuja and Port Harcourt erupt in celebration, the beautiful game uniting millions under the African night GoalZaza.
