Arsenal vs Slavia Prague: 4 talking points from Europa League draw

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Arsenal’s French striker Alexandre Lacazette reacts after missing a chance during the UEFA Europa League quarter-final first leg football match between Arsenal and Slavia Prague at the Emirates Stadium in London on April 8, 2021. (Photo by Ian KINGTON / AFP) (Photo by IAN KINGTON/AFP via Getty Images) /

Negligence in Both Boxes Comes Back to Bite – Again

Slavia Prague were there for the taking. They were average. And sadly, this is becoming a regular trait that when should result in one outcome, does not.

Their decision to cover their kit man in a mask and stick him in goal to pose as their No. 1 worked as scared finishing from Arsenal meant he was never tested.

Arsenal should have won this game. Fairly comfortably. Saka spurned a fine opportunity, Lacazette showed zero composure when a simple touch would’ve opened the scoring and Aubameyang had chance seconds after coming on, albeit not an easy one.

To concede the goal so late was cruel, as it can’t be said that Arsenal didn’t deserve to win this game having had all the chances. A bizarre approach and reluctance to change it meant they could have had more.

This was a poor performance. Of that there can be no arguments. Was it among the worst this season? Far from it, but a measure of ‘good’ teams is always if they can win when they play poorly, whereas Arsenal have to play very well to stand any chance.

And this team will continue to fall by the wayside until they eradicate their failings in either box.

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