Arsenal vs AFC Wimbledon: 3 requirements to beat the Dons

2. Keep Moving AFC Wimbledon’s Around – Stay Patient

When many Premier League sides make the trip to north London, setting up defensively with two low blocks of four is usually the blueprint. Starting the match defensively sound and not allowing the small pockets of space the likes of Emile Smith Rowe, Martin Odegaard, and Bukayo Saka thrive on will go a long way in frustrating the Gunners.

For Arsenal, being patient and allowing the game to come to them is important as it will be clear that AFC Wimbledon will be set up to frustrate the home side. Being able to pick the defensive lock of the visitors’ defense patiently to avoid frustration is key.

It comes down to moving the ball, all the time. Stretch the play, shift the opposition from side to side and maintain tempo.

The longer the game goes without a goal, the more confident AFC Wimbledon will get and the more desperate Arsenal will turn. This is where the visitors can sneak a goal on the counter with some impressive, pacy forwards.

It is important not to get too impatient, move the ball around and try to find the alleys through to goal. And not to rush it. Let the game come to them. It is clear Arsenal will have the better players on the pitch, allow the talent to do the work and the spaces will open up eventually.