Mikel Arteta's Arsenal face a monumental European challenge on Thursday evening as they travel to the Czech Republic to take on Slavia Prague in the Europa League quarter-finals.
The Gunners head into this crucial first leg encounter knowing their entire season now hinges on European success after disappointing domestic form. With Premier League ambitions fading, this competition represents Arsenal's only realistic path back to Champions League football.
When and Where to Watch
Football fans can catch all the action live on BT Sport 2, with coverage beginning at 7:30 PM BST ahead of the 8:00 PM kick-off. For those preferring to stream, the BT Sport app and website will provide comprehensive live coverage.
The match takes place at the Eden Arena in Prague, where the home side boast an impressive unbeaten record stretching back to November.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Arsenal received a significant boost with captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang available for selection after missing the weekend's Premier League fixture. The Gabonese striker's return couldn't come at a better time for an Arsenal side needing goals.
However, Arteta faces several selection headaches with Emile Smith Rowe and Granit Xhaka both racing against time to be fit. David Luiz remains sidelined through injury, while Kieran Tierney's absence continues to leave a void in defence.
Expected Arsenal lineup: Leno; Chambers, Holding, Gabriel, Cédric; Partey, Ceballos; Saka, Ødegaard, Aubameyang; Lacazette
The Opposition: Slavia Prague Threat
Slavia Prague present a formidable challenge, having already eliminated Premier League opposition in Leicester City during the previous round. The Czech champions remain undefeated in their domestic league and famously held Barcelona to a goalless draw in this season's Champions League group stage.
Their impressive defensive record - conceding just four goals in ten European matches this campaign - suggests Arsenal will need to be at their creative best to break them down.
What's at Stake
With Arsenal sitting mid-table in the Premier League, winning the Europa League represents their only route back to Europe's elite competition. Failure to progress could have significant financial and sporting consequences for the North London club.
Arteta acknowledged the importance, stating: "This is our Champions League now. We must approach it with the intensity and quality it demands."
The second leg takes place at the Emirates Stadium next Thursday, with the winners facing either Dinamo Zagreb or Villarreal in the semi-finals.
