It is 20 years since Arsenal reached their only Champions League final but opportunity could be knocking for the Premier League leaders. Victory against a talented but beatable Leverkusen side, currently sixth in the Bundesliga, would set up quarter-final versus either Bodo/Glimt or Sporting, two of this season's surprise packages. While competing on four fronts will test the Gunners' squad depth, it's an inviting prospect.
But the bracket could just as easily open up for Leverkusen, who will also be hoping to rekindle some noughties memories of their own. The only previous occasion they reached the last eight of this competition came during their run to the final in 2001–02, when they eliminated two English sides. Michael Ballack, Lucio and a young Dimitar Berbatov scored in a dramatic win to knock out Liverpool in the quarter-finals, before they edged past Manchester United in the semis. The Germans will also draw confidence from November's 2–0 win away to Manchester City, plus their formidable recent defensive record – they have gone over five hours without conceding a Champions League goal.
Did you know?
- Leverkusen have lost only two of their last 19 European home games (W11, D6).
- The German club have conceded 26 shots from high turnovers, more than any other side in the Champions League this season (prior to the latest round of fixtures).
- They have created 43% of their chances in this season's CL down their left-hand side. Left wing-back Alejandro Grimaldo has created 23 chances, 12 more than any of his team-mates.
Key player – if he makes it…
Patrick Schick is doubtful for this game after missing the last two matches with a muscle issue. He is Leverkusen's top scorer this season with 13 goals, including both goals against Olympiakos in the last round plus one in November's 2-0 win away to Man City.
The Czech is in his sixth season at the club and signed new long-term deal in August. Injuries mean he has started more than 20 league games just once for Leverkusen.
