UEFA Champions League: Arsenal vs Dinamo Zagreb Preview – January 22, 2025
The UEFA Champions League continues with another electrifying fixture as Arsenal hosts Dinamo Zagreb at the Emirates Stadium on January 22, 2025. This Round of 16 first-leg encounter is a crucial opportunity for both teams to gain an advantage in their pursuit of European glory. Arsenal, returning to prominence on the European stage, faces a resilient Dinamo Zagreb side that has consistently punched above its weight in continental competition.
Here’s a detailed look at the event details, team news, possible lineups, playing ground, head-to-head record, and live-streaming options.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Kick-Off Time: 21:00 CET / 20:00 GMT / 15:00 ET
Venue: Emirates Stadium, London, England
Broadcast and Live Stream:
UK: BT Sport
US: CBS Sports, Paramount+, Univision
Worldwide: UEFA.tv and official broadcasters
Team News
Arsenal
Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta’s guidance, has been thriving both domestically and in Europe. After a dominant group-stage campaign, the Gunners are expected to carry their form into this crucial tie.
Injuries/Suspensions:
Bukayo Saka: Slight knock but expected to feature.
Gabriel Jesus: Likely to return from a minor calf strain.
Thomas Partey: Still recovering from a hamstring issue and unlikely to play.
Key Players:
Martin Ødegaard’s creativity and leadership in midfield will be pivotal, while Gabriel Martinelli’s pace and flair on the flanks could cause problems for Dinamo’s defense.
Dinamo Zagreb
Dinamo Zagreb’s campaign has been a testament to their resilience and tactical discipline. Manager Igor Bišćan has built a cohesive unit capable of upsetting Europe’s elite.
Injuries/Suspensions:
Josip Šutalo: Ruled out with a knee injury.
Arijan Ademi: Suspended after accumulating yellow cards in the group stage.
Key Players:
Luka Ivanušec’s technical ability and Mislav Oršić’s knack for delivering in big games make them vital to Dinamo’s chances.
Possible Lineups
Arsenal (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Aaron Ramsdale
Defenders: Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Oleksandr Zinchenko
Midfielders: Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, Fabio Vieira
Forwards: Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli
Dinamo Zagreb (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Dominik Livaković
Defenders: Sadegh Moharrami, Dino Perić, Kevin Theophile-Catherine, Petar Bočkaj
Midfielders: Josip Mišić, Luka Ivanušec
Attackers: Bruno Petković, Mislav Oršić, Dario Špikić
Striker: Antonio Marin
Playing Ground: Emirates Stadium
The Emirates Stadium, Arsenal’s modern and iconic home, will host this crucial European clash. With a capacity of over 60,000, the atmosphere will undoubtedly be electric as the Gunners’ faithful rally behind their team. Dinamo Zagreb will need to contend with both Arsenal’s quality on the pitch and the intimidating environment of the Emirates.
Head-to-Head
Total Matches Played: 4
Arsenal Wins: 2
Dinamo Zagreb Wins: 2
Draws: 0
The last meeting between the sides came in the 2015/16 Champions League group stage, where Arsenal triumphed 3-0 at the Emirates. Dinamo, however, secured a memorable 2-1 win in the reverse fixture in Zagreb.
Match Preview
Arsenal’s Strategy
Arsenal will aim to control the game through possession, utilizing their fluid attacking style and pressing game. Martin Ødegaard’s playmaking ability and the pace of Saka and Martinelli on the wings are likely to be key factors in breaking down Dinamo’s compact defense. Declan Rice’s presence in midfield will provide the stability needed to thwart Dinamo’s counterattacks.
The Gunners’ ability to create chances from wide areas and set pieces could also be decisive in this encounter.
Dinamo Zagreb’s Approach
Dinamo Zagreb is expected to adopt a pragmatic approach, focusing on defensive solidity and exploiting opportunities on the counter. Mislav Oršić’s pace and finishing ability, coupled with Bruno Petković’s physical presence, will be crucial in unsettling Arsenal’s backline.
Bišćan’s side will look to frustrate Arsenal by maintaining a compact defensive shape and capitalizing on any lapses in concentration from the Gunners.
Key Players to Watch
Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal): The Norwegian maestro is Arsenal’s creative heartbeat, capable of unlocking defenses with his vision and precision passing.
Mislav Oršić (Dinamo Zagreb): A proven performer in European competitions, Oršić’s ability to score crucial goals makes him Dinamo’s most dangerous player.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Arsenal Win: 1/4
Dinamo Zagreb Win: 9/1
Draw: 5/1
Arsenal enters the match as overwhelming favorites due to their superior quality, home advantage, and recent form. A 3-0 victory for the Gunners is a likely outcome, though Dinamo’s counterattacking threat could keep the tie competitive.
How to Watch
United Kingdom:
BT Sport 2
BT Sport App
United States:
CBS Sports
Paramount+
Univision
Fans worldwide can access live match updates and commentary through the official UEFA Champions League app or UEFA.tv.
Conclusion
Arsenal vs. Dinamo Zagreb promises to be a captivating encounter, blending the artistry of Arsenal’s dynamic football with Dinamo’s tactical resilience. While the Gunners are favorites to secure a first-leg victory, Dinamo has a history of causing upsets on the European stage. The Emirates Stadium is set for an enthralling night of Champions League action as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the quarterfinals.
With the return leg in Zagreb looming, Arsenal will aim to establish a commanding lead, while Dinamo will seek to stay within striking distance. Football fans around the world can expect a thrilling contest between two teams with contrasting styles and ambitions.