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Arsenal vs Swansea City Preview: Finishing the Right Way
By Brian Wong
On Monday, Arsenal welcome Swansea City to North London for what should be a great game. The first time these two teams played, Arsenal was unable to play it’s preferred style. The defense seemed uncomfortable and unstable, while the offense was unbalanced, depending greatly on Sanchez. However, Arsenal have continued to improve as a team in all areas of the pitch while Swansea have not impressed.
Prediction: Arsenal 2-0 Swansea City
1) A Balanced Attack
The one thing that has made Arsenal a much better side since the last time these two played each other is the improved balance to the attack. Arsenal don’t only rely on Sanchez to create something out of nothing. Ozil, Ramsey, and Giroud can all be relied upon and all play their part. Look for Ozil and Sanchez to pressure the Swansea defense and look for Arsenal to dominate the ball.
Not only that but Olivier Giroud has to be getting hungrier and hungrier for goals. But even when he’s not scoring, he’s contributing to link up play and moving the attack forward. Giroud has become everything that everyone said he wasn’t – a complete striker.
Jul 26, 2014; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York Red Bulls forward Peguy Luyindula (8) controls the ball in front of Arsenal midfielder Francis Coquelin (34) during the second half of a game at Red Bull Arena. The Red Bulls defeated Arsenal 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
2) Arsenal’s defense is clicking again
Coquelin has been amazing and Koscielny has held the back line beautifully. These two players, coupled with a hard working Cazorla means that Arsenal have been dangerous on the counter attack and yet disciplined enough to not give up easy goals.
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The games these past few weeks have been so lovely to watch because watching all of those players organized at the back make it much easier to focus on the attack.
3) Swansea City have always given Arsenal trouble
I know Arsenal haven’t lost a lot of games to Swansea City, but I feel like when I watch the games, Arsenal always look uncomfortable. Arsenal never truly settle into their games against Swansea City and I don’t think that will change. The Arsenal defense is going to have to withstand some early pressure to win this game. Swansea will be a tough opponent.