Arsenal will host Bolton Wanderers in the third round of the Carabao Cup, looking to avoid the fate they met in past encounters with the Trotters. While Arsenal's recent form has been solid, the Gunners will need to be wary of a Bolton side eager to cause an upset.
Arsenal Recent Form
Arsenal have shown defensively resilience, maintaining an unbeaten run across multiple competitions so far this season. Their latest 2-2 draw against Manchester City in the Premier League showcased their defensive grit right up until the 97th minute, but their focus now shifts to a competition they haven’t triumphed in since 1993.
Injury and Team News
Arsenal have a host of injury concerns. Key players such as Martin Ødegaard (ankle) and Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee) are ruled out, while Leandro Trossard will serve a one-match suspension after getting sent off against City.
Mikel Arteta may opt for a youthful lineup with Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly expected to feature.
Last Arsenal Lineup
Here is how Arsenal lined up for their last match against Manchester City:
Bolton Wanderers Recent Form
Bolton have been inconsistent this season, following a pattern of alternating wins and losses. Their last match was a 5-2 victory over Reading, powered by a Dion Charles hat-trick. Bolton’s form in the EFL Cup, however, has been more steady, with wins over Mansfield Town and Shrewsbury Town.
Injury and Team News
Bolton have several players out due to injuries. Jordi Osei-Tutu is recovering from a knee injury, while Gethin Jones (knee) and Will Forrester (toe) are also sidelined. Scott Arfield may bring some valuable experience to an otherwise youthful squad.
Last Bolton Lineup
Here is how Bolton lined up for their recent match against Reading:
Arsenal Player to Watch
Bukayo Saka is likely to make an impact if he starts. The young star’s form has been pivotal for Arsenal, and he could prove the difference-maker against Bolton.
Bolton Player to Watch
Dion Charles, fresh from his hat-trick against Reading, is a player Arsenal will need to keep an eye on. His ability to find the back of the net could trouble a potentially rotated Gunners defence.
Prediction
Even with a rotated squad, Arsenal’s quality should see them through comfortably. Bolton’s inconsistent form and defensive frailties make it difficult to see them pulling off an upset.
Our Prediction: Arsenal 2-0 Bolton Wanderers
Betting Tips
Tip 1
Arsenal to win with a clean sheet.
Tip 2
Under 3.5 goals.
Tip 3
Bukayo Saka to score anytime.
