Preview of Arsenal vs BK Häcken: The Gunners Look to Overturn Deficit in Champions League Decider

Arsenal are preparing for a must-win clash against BK Häcken in the second leg of their Champions League qualifier at Meadow Park this Thursday.

After a narrow 1-0 defeat on the artificial turf in Gothenburg, the Gunners will look to bounce back on home soil as they aim to secure their place in the group stages.

Despite a spirited performance in Sweden, Jonas Eidevall’s side lacked intensity in front of goal, with new signing Rosa Kafaji coming closest to a goal when she struck the crossbar against her former club. A 76th-minute strike from Tabitha Tindell ultimately gave Häcken the advantage, leaving Arsenal with work to do in the return leg.

Back at Boreham Wood, Arsenal hope their passing game will thrive. A two-goal victory is needed to overturn the deficit, and Eidevall will be looking for more clinical finishing this time around.

The Gunners have shown their dominance at Meadow Park with convincing wins over Rangers and Rosenborg in the previous round, and the passionate home support will be vital in pushing them through to the next round.

Key Decisions

One key question ahead of Thursday’s fixture is over the starting lineup and whether Eidevall will stick with Manuela Zinsberger in goal after her run of matches in the starting eleven, or whether he will give summer signing Daphne van Domselaar her first competitive start.

Zinsberger was solid in the first leg, but van Domselaar’s arrival has added depth and competition to the goalkeeper position.

Another important decision revolves around the striker role: will Eidevall opt for the pace of Stina Blackstenius or give Russo the not to lead the line?

Leah Williamson’s absence in the WSL opener against Manchester City due to concussion protocols has left fans wondering if she’ll be fit to feature.

After making a significant impact off the bench in Sweden, her potential return could bolster Arsenal’s defence and leadership.

Facing a BK Häcken side currently sitting second in the Damallsvenskan, Arsenal must be prepared for a team that excels in absorbing pressure and performing fast-paced counterattacks.

Eidevall’s tactical approach will be crucial in unlocking Hacken’s defence and the Gunners must be alert and ready to exploit any mistakes made by their opposition.

This match is pivotal for Arsenal’s season.

A win on Thursday would not only keep their Champions League ambitions alive but with the WSL now in full swing, it would also set the tone for the campaign ahead. With so much at stake, an intense and electrifying encounter awaits.

Arsenal kick-off against BK Häcken at Meadow Park at 730pm on Thursday (September 26).