Under the lights of Prague, anticipation is high as Slavia Prague prepare to host Arsenal on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, in the UEFA Champions League group stage. The match will take place at the Fortuna Arena, a venue that has seen its share of memorable European nights, with kick-off scheduled for 17:45 UK time. Both teams come into this encounter with very different ambitions: Arsenal aim to maintain their perfect start in the competition, while Slavia seek to earn their first win in the group and keep hopes of qualification alive.
In terms of player availability, Arsenal’s squad has been hit by a series of setbacks. Viktor Gyökeres will not feature after sustaining a muscle injury at the weekend, while Martin Ødegaard and Gabriel Martinelli remain unavailable due to ongoing fitness issues. Kai Havertz and Noni Madueke are also expected to miss the trip, and Martín Zubimendi’s suspension further limits Mikel Arteta’s midfield options. For the hosts, Jindřich Trpišovský must also work around absences, with Ivan Schranz, Filip Horský, Igoh Ogbu, and captain Jan Bořil all sidelined. The Czech champions will rely heavily on players like Mojmír Chytil and Lukáš Provod to lead their attacking efforts.
Tactically, Mikel Arteta is likely to stay faithful to his structured, possession-based game, but his lack of forwards could prompt a slight reshuffle. Reports suggest Arsenal may switch between a 4-3-3 and a 4-2-3-1 setup, with Leandro Trossard operating as a false nine and Bukayo Saka given freedom to drift inside from the right. Arsenal’s defensive stability has been their biggest asset so far in Europe — three matches, three wins, and no goals conceded — and Arteta is expected to emphasize control and precision over risk. Trpišovský, known for his aggressive pressing and disciplined defensive shape, has admitted his side must “defend compactly and take chances on the counter” against what he described as “the most complete Arsenal in years.”
Across Europe, the press has built this clash as a contrast of styles and stature. English outlets highlight Arsenal’s dominant form and flawless record against Czech opposition, underlining their clear statistical superiority. In the Czech media, the tone is more defiant — portraying Slavia as underdogs ready to test themselves against a Premier League powerhouse. Analysts have pointed out Slavia’s impressive home record domestically but note their lack of efficiency in Europe this season. The general narrative leans toward Arsenal’s technical mastery, but there is cautious optimism in Prague that the energy of the home crowd could unsettle the visitors.
In the pre-match studios, analysts have offered a mix of praise and realism. Arsenal’s control in midfield and organization at the back have been hailed as key reasons for their European success this campaign. Predictions mostly favor the English side, with many expecting a disciplined performance resulting in a two or three-goal victory. Still, the pundits agree that Slavia’s intensity, home atmosphere, and tactical discipline could make this a far tougher night than numbers suggest. With so much at stake, both managers will know that tactical precision and concentration could decide whether this becomes another step forward for Arsenal or a statement night for Slavia Prague.
Watch and Download Slavia Prague vs Arsenal full match replay and highlights, At Tuesday, November 04, 2025. The match played at Fortuna Arena, in Champions League, UEFA.
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