Aston Villa’s formidable home form faces a stern test as Premier League leaders Arsenal arrive at Villa Park in Saturday’s early kick-off.
Unai Emery’s side have turned their home ground into something of a fortress with eight straight wins in front of their own supporters, and their dramatic 4–3 comeback at Brighton in midweek underlined their confidence going forward. Arsenal, however, make the trip unbeaten since August and with 13 wins from their last 15 matches, so this is as tough a fixture as Villa could ask for.
With both sides thriving in the final third, the most appealing market looks to be over 2.5 goals. Villa have seen four of their last five games go over that line, while the Gunners have been involved in similarly high-scoring contests recently. Arsenal have scored in 18 consecutive matches, but they have also shown the occasional lapse defensively, conceding in four of their last five.
Villa should reasonably expect to score given the momentum they’ve built, especially at home. They’ve failed to find the net only once in their last 15 games across all competitions. Arsenal, meanwhile, continue to produce chances consistently and have netted at least two goals in seven of their last eight outings.
A share of the points wouldn’t be a shock, and a 2–2 draw looks a lively correct-score option. Arsenal’s last two away league matches ended level, and although they could have won both, they may again meet stubborn resistance from an in-form opponent.
Ollie Watkins, fresh from a brace against Brighton, offers strong value in the goalscorer markets. He struck against Arsenal in last season’s meeting at the Emirates, and with his confidence seemingly restored, he looks well placed to make an impact again.
Predictions
- Over 2.5 Goals – 11/10
- Correct Score: 2–2 Draw – 16/1
- Ollie Watkins to Score Anytime – 13/5
Responsible Gambling: Please bet responsibly.
