Brentford host Arsenal in the New Year's Eve Christmas Express matchup. Despite the fact that Brentford have been hit by a wave of injuries due to the intensive fixtures and players' stamina is a concern, Arsenal are fighting bravely, winning their last three games and needing to grab points to catch up with the leader Liverpool. In the last six matches between the two teams, Arsenal won five and drew one, and in the last four matches on the road, they led three times in the first half. If Arsenal capitalize on their chances, a half-time lead is not out of reach. (Now 621, 611 live at 1:30am Thursday)
Binford is a small to mid-sized team, but the bench is limited, and it's difficult for leader Frank to rotate the lineup. In the past four matches, Binford has a 1-3 record, and the pressure on the defensive end is enormous. If the opponent seizes the opportunity, the 0-0 score is afraid to keep. The injury to goalkeeper Philligan has increased Brentford's injury list to nine, and Frank's tactical layout is even worse. It is expected that Binford will focus on defense to fight against Arsenal's Arsenal. However, a long defensive period and the poor performance of sub-selected goalkeeper Waldemarchen will increase the risk of losing in the first half of the match.
On Arsenal's side, despite the absence of attacking centerpiece Bucayo Shaka, Gabriele Jetsis is in great form, and Jesus Boy is full of confidence with five goals contributed in his last three matches. Xaviers have been in good form lately, and the German international has scored in both of his matches against Binford, making him the Bee's nemesis. The attacking power of Gabriele Martinelli and Leandro Dussart should not be underestimated, and the attacking line of the Arsenal is strong.
Arsenal scored 16 goals in their last four matches on the road, with a lot of offensive power and a good defense, with 16 goals coming from dead ball tactics. The two stalwarts, Gabriele Magalhaes and William Salemba, are good at corner kicks, which the opponents can't defend against. I believe Arsenal can take the lead quickly in the first half, or even realize the half-time lead.
