It would be a reasonable assumption to state that Arsène Wenger did not want to see Atlético Madrid beside Arsenal’s in the Europa League Semi Final draw. But, as it happens, the two favourites were indeed drawn together, with Marseille and Salzburg making the other Semi Final. The matches will be played on 26th April and 3rd May, with Arsenal and Marseille will be at home in the first leg of their respective games.
Looking first to the Arsenal vs. Atlético match, which will be the first ever meeting between the two sides. Almost all bookmakers have inserted the Madrid side as favourites to go through to the Final at odds of around 1/2, with Arsenal given odds in the region of 6/4. It is, of course, imperative that Arsenal bring some sort of advantage to the second leg in Spain. Atlético are unbeaten at the Wanda Metropolitano in the league this season, although Chelsea did nick a 2-1 victory there in the Champions League group rounds.
Wenger’s approach to game at Emirates may be key
The good news is that Arsenal are slightly favoured at 6/4 (888sport) to take a lead to Spain. Atlético are given odds of 19/10, with the draw priced at 11/5. There is a perception that Atlético under Diego Simone area defensive team, but they have bagged 15 goals in their six Europa League matches this season. Keeping them out will be difficult, which is reflected in the 18/5 odds for Arsenal to win to nil.
Indeed, Arsenal’s defending, especially when it comes to committing basic errors, will have to improve if they are to have any chance of qualifying. The likes of Antoine Griezmann, Saúl and a rejuvenated-looking Diego Costa will not give any quarter.
Salzburg have been the surprise package of the Europa League 2018
For the neutral viewer, the Marseille vs RB Salzburg match should be one of intrigue. Most will be expecting Marseille to make the Final, with the French side given odds of around 7/10 to do so. However, Salzburg have arguably had the toughest route to the semis and showed their mettle by coming through against Real Sociedad, Borussia Dortmund and Lazio.
Salzburg’s performances against Borussia Dortmund in the Last 16 matches were particularly impressive. They were the better side in both games against the German giants, fully meriting their victory at the imposing Westfalenstadion. That should give them plenty of confidence against Marseille at the equally-daunting Stade Vélodrome.
Arsenal’s outright odds will tempt plenty of Gunners fans
Do Salzburg have a chance to win it all? Bookmakers have made them outsiders, but certainly not longshots. They are priced at 13/2 to win the trophy, with Atlético at 11/10, Arsenal at 11/4 and Marseille at 4/1. You can get 888sport free bet offers right now to use on any team – or sport – of your choice.
In the end though, it makes sense that Arsenal’s opponents are the favourites. Not only do they have the best squad, but it seems that Simeone has the team in the right frame of mind for the competition. Should Wenger guide Arsenal through this however, he will approach the Final knowing his side have beaten the best in the competition. One step at a time, of course: Two huge games await before Arsenal can really start thinking about Parc Olympique Lyonnais on 16th May.
