Arsenal Plays Wigan in FA Cup Match

Arsenal will play Wigan in the FA Cup today. Arsenal is a strong team, but some players are not feeling well. Wigan is a smaller team that has surprised others before.
By Newsroom | Football, FA Cup |

Arsenal is set to host Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup's fourth round, a fixture that brings together a dominant Premier League contender against a struggling League One side. While historical performance and current form strongly favor Arsenal, the team faces internal challenges with key players nursing injuries and illnesses, adding an element of unpredictability to the match.

The FA Cup has a well-documented history of delivering upsets, and this tie is no exception. Arsenal, vying for multiple trophies this season, are the clear favorites. However, the recent strain on their squad, coupled with Wigan's past giant-killing feats, means that complacency could prove costly. The outcome will be keenly watched not only for its impact on the FA Cup competition but also for what it reveals about Arsenal's squad depth and resilience under pressure.

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Context: The Road to the Fourth Round

Arsenal and Wigan are set to meet for an FA Cup fourth-round tie, a stage where the competition often brings together teams from different tiers of English football.

  • Arsenal's Path: Arsenal advanced to this round by defeating Portsmouth 4-1 in the third round.

  • Wigan's Upset: Wigan, a League One side, secured their place by overcoming Championship club Preston North End 1-0 in a notable upset.

  • Historical Context: This match marks the first meeting between the two clubs in the FA Cup in over a decade. Arsenal holds a significant historical advantage in previous encounters.

Team News and Player Availability

Both teams are dealing with player availability issues, though Arsenal's appear to be more recent and impactful given their demanding schedule.

Arsenal vs Wigan: FA Cup prediction, kick-off time, team news, TV, live stream, h2h results, odds today - 2

Arsenal's Fitness Worries

Manager Mikel Arteta is facing new concerns regarding Kai Havertz, who is dealing with a muscle problem, and William Saliba, who has been ill. Martin Odegaard also received treatment for a knee issue after his return against Brentford, though he was seen limping. These absences raise questions about the depth of Arsenal's squad, especially with a busy Premier League schedule ahead.

Wigan's Injury Status

Wigan may be without James Carragher, the son of Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher, who has missed recent matches due to a knock. Reports suggest that Wigan does not have any unavailable players otherwise.

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Head-to-Head Performance and Recent Form

Statistical data suggests a stark contrast in recent performance between the two clubs.

  • Arsenal's Home Dominance: Arsenal has an impressive record at home, with 8 wins, 1 defeat, and 1 draw in their last 10 home matches. They have won 14 of their last 17 home games overall.

  • Wigan's Struggles: Wigan is in a difficult period of form. They have secured only four wins from their last 15 games and have lost their last four consecutive matches. They are without a win in six games.

  • Past Meetings: Arsenal has won the previous three matches against Wigan Athletic. In their last five meetings, Arsenal has secured four wins. The most recent encounter saw a 1-1 draw, with Arsenal winning on penalties (4-2).

StatisticArsenal (Last 10 Home)Wigan (Last 10 Away)
Wins83
Draws13
Losses14
Avg. Goals Scored2.201.20
Avg. Goals Conceded0.701.70
Over 2.5 Goals6 of 103 of 10
Both Teams to Score (Yes)5 of 104 of 10

Betting Odds and Predictions

Bookmakers overwhelmingly favor Arsenal, reflecting their superior league status and home advantage.

Read More: Arsenal Plays Wigan in FA Cup

Arsenal vs Wigan: FA Cup prediction, kick-off time, team news, TV, live stream, h2h results, odds today - 4

  • Match Odds: Arsenal is heavily favored to win, with odds of 1/20. Wigan is priced at 40/1 to secure an unlikely victory.

  • Score Predictions: Several sources predict a comfortable win for Arsenal. One prediction suggests a 4-0 victory for Arsenal, citing their home advantage and Wigan's poor form. Another forecast is for Arsenal to win 4-0.

  • Goalscorer Bets: Eberechi Eze is highlighted as a potential anytime goalscorer for Arsenal at 7/5.

Tactical Considerations and Potential Lineups

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is expected to rotate his squad significantly, balancing the need for a win with preparations for upcoming Premier League fixtures.

  • Arsenal's Rotation Strategy: Given the proximity of key league matches against Wolves and Tottenham, Arteta is likely to rest several first-team regulars. Players like Eberechi Eze and Lewis-Skelly might be given opportunities.

  • Possible Arsenal Lineup: One projected lineup includes Kepa; White, Mosquera, Calafiori, Lewis-Skelly; Eze, Norgaard, Rice; Madueke, Jesus, Martinelli.

  • Wigan's Approach: Wigan, as the underdog, will likely focus on a disciplined defensive performance and look to exploit any opportunities on the counter-attack.

  • Possible Wigan Lineup: A potential Wigan lineup features Tickle; Fox, Aimson, Kerr; Hunt, Weir, Smith, Murray; Bettoni, Wright; Taylor.

Expert Analysis and Insights

Commentators emphasize Arsenal's historical dominance and current form, while acknowledging the FA Cup's capacity for surprises.

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"Arsenal should be wary of falling victim to such spells [FA Cup magic] as they face Wigan." - Standard.co.uk

"Given Wigan’s disastrous form—just four wins from their last 15 games and four straight defeats—few will give the League One side a hope ahead of the trip to Arsenal." - Sports Illustrated

"The Gunners cruised past Portsmouth 4-1 in their third-round opener, while the Latics stunned Preston North End 1-0 last time out to earn a date with the Premier League leaders." - Sports Mole

Conclusion and Implications

Arsenal enters the match as overwhelming favorites, a position reinforced by their strong home record and Wigan's current winless streak. However, the team's fitness concerns, particularly with Saliba and Havertz potentially sidelined, introduce an element of vulnerability. Manager Arteta's decision to rotate the squad will be crucial in managing player fatigue while ensuring progression in the competition. Wigan, having already produced an upset in the previous round, will aim to frustrate Arsenal and capitalize on any defensive lapses. The outcome will likely hinge on Arsenal's ability to impose their quality despite potential squad changes and Wigan's capacity to maintain defensive solidity and create attacking chances.

Sources:

Read More: Arsenal vs Wigan FA Cup Match: How to Watch

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who is playing?
Arsenal is playing against Wigan in the FA Cup.
Q: Who is expected to win?
Arsenal is expected to win because they are a stronger team and play at home.
Q: Are there any player problems?
Yes, some Arsenal players are sick or have muscle problems. Wigan has fewer player issues.
Q: Has Wigan won before?
Yes, Wigan beat a bigger team to get to this round.