Arsenal must build on Leeds comeback as Lille test Champions League ambitions
Arsenal return to Champions League action against Lille at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, looking to extend their impressive European winning streak and take another step towards continental glory. The Premier League champions opened their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Napoli, securing a 13th consecutive Champions League league-phase win.
However, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will demand a more convincing performance than the one his players produced against Leeds United on Saturday. The Gunners needed second-half goals from Riccardo Calafiori and Bruno Guimaraes to overturn a deficit and secure a 2-1 victory over Daniel Farke's previously unbeaten side.
For much of that encounter, Arsenal looked vulnerable defensively and lacked the attacking urgency expected of champions. Nevertheless, their response after conceding demonstrated the resilience that helped them win last season's Premier League title.
That comeback should restore confidence following the disappointing 3-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion before the international break. Arsenal now need to translate that renewed belief into a more controlled performance against Lille.
The French visitors will provide unfamiliar opposition, with Tuesday's encounter representing the first competitive meeting between the clubs. Lille lost their Champions League opener 3-2 against Real Betis but have responded with two victories in their subsequent three domestic matches.
Davide Ancelotti's side also arrive after defeating Le Havre 1-0, suggesting they possess sufficient quality and organisation to trouble Arsenal. Former Gunners striker Olivier Giroud could provide an intriguing subplot should he feature against his old club.
However, Arsenal's impressive European home record gives them every reason to approach the contest confidently. They have won 15 of their last 16 home group-stage or league-phase matches in the Champions League, drawing the other.
Injuries nevertheless threaten to complicate Arteta's preparations. William Saliba and Christos Tzolis remain fitness concerns, while Piero Hincapie reportedly suffered an ankle injury after Saturday's victory.
Arteta could therefore turn to his squad depth, with Guimaraes, Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres among those pushing for starting opportunities. Guimaraes particularly strengthened his case with the decisive contribution against Leeds, bringing greater intensity to Arsenal's midfield.