Chelsea 0-0 Arsenal
Arsenal held online gambling favourites Chelsea to a goalless draw at the Bridge to leave their Carabao Cup semi-final tie in the balance. However, they lost in-form Jack Wilshere to injury that could potentially rob the midfielder a return to the second leg of the live betting affair in two weeks time.
Chelsea proved betting odds right as they showed they are the better team, but a stubborn defensive display from the Gunners denied them the win and restored some pride for Arsene Wenger and his boys.
The Gunners needed a good result after their embarrassing FA Cup defeat to Nottingham Forrest, and they didn’t disappoint and demonstrated strength with Shkodran Mustafi and Calum Chambers leading their stingy defence.
In the game during which Wenger was at the press box due to his ban, the Blues tried to exploit the French tactician’s absence from the touchlines. Nonetheless, their careless finishing didn’t help as the match ended scoreless.
Cesc Fabregas and Andreas Christensen were guilty with some poor headers, while efforts from Victor Moses and Alvaro Morata were saved well by Arsenal keeper David Ospina.
Chelsea also had two penalty claims, when Moses tangled with Ainsley Maitland-Niles in the first half and for Danny Welbeck’s 88th-minute challenge on Fabregas. However, a review with the VAR showed evidence that a spot-kick shouldn’t be given.
Meanwhile, with Mesut Ozil injured and Alexis Sanchez coming off as a substitute, Arsenal were short of attacking talent. Alexandre Lacazette had the best chance to score for the Gunners, but he sent his first-half strike over the bar.
The draw could have been a great result for Arsenal, though Wilshere’s new injury put a damper on what was an otherwise solid performance from the team. The 26-year-old midfielder, who wore the captain’s armband in the game for his recent renaissance, limped off midway through the second half after twisting his ankle when trying to block a Chelsea long pass.
Arsenal are undoubtedly happier with the stalemate as they now set up a thrilling do-or-die London Derby at the Emirates Stadium. It’s clear though that they have a lot to improve if they are to take down Antonio Conte’s talented squad.
For the latest sports update, promotions and betting picks with SBOBET get social with our official Twitter, Google+, YouTube and Facebook accounts. Visit SBOBET and join us now. Start placing your bets today!
Click for more football betting options.
