Arsenal v Porto – Live Blog – 9 March 2010

Arsenal v Porto is available as a live blog below as well as an internet stream to watch live online.

Arsenal v Porto
UEFA Champions League Round of 16 2nd Leg
Emirates Stadium – London, England
19:45 GMT – 9 March 2010

Arsenal hosts Porto on Tuesday, March 9, 2010 in the UEFA Champions League looking to overcome a 2-1 deficit from the first leg.

Arsenal v Porto Preview

Porto had a 2-1 win in the first leg and have proven capable of playing with clubs in the larger leagues. Arsenal did not look great in the first leg and will need to improve their form if they want to advance. A 1-0 victory would put them through but a 2-1 win would require extra time. The Gunners will be without captain Cesc Fabregas who has been the heart and soul of the club for the last few season. William Gallas will also be unavailable for the match.

Porto does not have any injury concerns and will be at full strength for the match. They’ve yet to win at London in a UEFA Champions League match and lost 0-4 at Arsenal in 2008. Despite the history, Porto are a dangerous team with attacking players Falcao, Marian Gonzalez, Cristian Rodriguez, and Hulk. Arsenal will need striker Nicklas Bendtner to convert chances. Bendtner has come under scrutiny this season for his lack of finishing and had numerous chances during Saturday’s EPL match against Burnley.

Arsenal should be able to create chances but will have to take advantage of them if they want to advance. Porto has had trouble scoring goals on the road in the Champions League, especially in England, so a 1-0 win for the Gunners is realistic. The Portuguese side will likely play conservative and look for chances on the counterattack.

Arsenal v Porto Prediction

Arsenal will win the match 1-0.

Arsenal v Porto Live Blog