When Arsenal welcomed Olympiacos at the Emirates Stadium on the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 group stage match, football fans got a reminder of why European nights feel like festivals.
It kicked off Wednesday, 1 October 2025, at 20:00 BST (15:00 ET, 00:30 IST Thursday, 05:00 AEST Thursday). The stakes were simple: the Gunners, fresh from a 2‑0 win over Athletic Bilbao, wanted to keep the momentum; the Greek side, perched atop their domestic league, hoped extra rest would turn into an away point.
How Both Teams Got Here
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, entered the weekend buoyant after his side’s 2‑0 victory at San Mames on 23 September. Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard did the dirty work, turning a tight opening‑stage match into three points.
Meanwhile, Jose Luis Mendilibar gave Olympiacos a 24‑hour breathing room by finishing their domestic fixture against Levadiakos a day earlier. The Greek giants beat the lower‑division side 2‑1, extending their unbeaten run to five league games and solidifying their lead at the top of the Super League.
Injury List and Tactical Options for Arteta
Artetta’s optimism came with a caveat: the Gunners were missing a few key attackers. New signing Piero Hincapié was still nursing a knock from early‑month training and couldn’t travel with the squad. Noni Madueke and Kai Havertz remained sidelined with knee‑related setbacks.
That left Arteta leaning on the likes of Martinelli, Trossard, and the experienced Gabriel. The midfield was likely to feature Thomas Partey alongside the emerging Jakub Kiwior, providing a blend of steel and creativity.
Olympiacos’ Preparation and Recent Form
In contrast, Olympiacos entered the Emirates with the freshest legs in the group. After the Levadiakos win, they logged a goalless draw against Pafos FC in their Champions League opener, firing 18 shots without finding the net – a statistic that hints at both ambition and finishing woes.
Mendilibar’s side will probably line up a 4‑2‑3‑1, with veteran striker Youssef En-Nesyri leading the line. The midfield duo of Stefanos Tsoumakas and Vasilios Mavropanos will aim to control the tempo and supply En‑Nesyri with clean chances.
The History Between the Gunners and the Greeks
Statistically, this matchup is a coin‑flip. Six wins for Arsenal, six for Olympiacos, and—oddly—no draws in European competition. Every previous clash has produced a goal, often late drama, making the “no‑draw” streak a quirky footnote that fans love to mention over pints.
Last meeting in the 2022‑23 group stage saw Olympiacos snatch a 3‑2 win on the final minute, a result that still stings for Arsenal supporters. This time, Arteta appears hell‑bent on avoiding another late‑hour scramble.
Broadcast Details and Fan Tips
- UK: Live on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate, coverage starts at 19:00 BST.
- US: Stream via CBS or Paramount+.
- India: Catch the action on SonyLIV.
- Australia: Tune in to Stan Sport.
- Live updates: Follow ESPN on social platforms.
For those heading to the stadium, gates open at 17:30 BST. Expect a lively atmosphere; fans often bring scarves, flags, and a chorus of “One No 1” that reverberates through the stands.
What This Result Could Mean
Should Arsenal clinch three points, they’ll sit comfortably in the top two of Group C, eyeing a knockout‑stage berth with a realistic chance. Conversely, a loss could push them into a do‑or‑die scenario against a tougher opponent in the final group match.
Olympiacos, if they manage a point, will keep their growing confidence and retain a fighting chance to finish second, despite the “away‑games‑are‑hard” cliché.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will Arsenal’s injury list affect their attacking options?
With Hincapié, Madueke and Havertz sidelined, Arteta will most likely rely on Martinelli and Trossard as the primary forwards, supported by Partey and Kiwior in midfield. The bench offers limited depth, meaning any further knock‑outs could force a tactical reshuffle.
What advantage does Olympiacos have coming into the match?
Mendilibar’s squad enjoyed an extra 24‑hour rest period and entered the fixture unbeaten in five domestic games. That freshness, combined with recent confidence from the Levadiakos win, could translate into a higher work‑rate and sharper finishing.
Why is the historical head‑to‑head between the clubs significant?
Both sides have won six European meetings, and none have ever drawn. The lack of draws means every clash has produced a decisive result, often with late drama. That history adds an extra psychological layer for players and fans alike.
What are the broadcast options for fans outside the UK?
U.S. viewers can stream via CBS or Paramount+. In India the match is on SonyLIV, while Australian fans should tune in to Stan Sport. ESPN will also provide live updates across its digital channels.
What could the result mean for Arsenal’s Champions League campaign?
A win would cement Arsenal’s position among the group leaders and ease pressure for the remaining fixtures. A loss, however, would complicate their path to the knockout stage, potentially turning the final group game into a must‑win scenario.
Erica Watson-Currie
October 5, 2025 AT 06:16The night when the lights blaze across the Emirates feels like a ritual of destiny. A clash between histories reminds us why football is more than a game.
Mark Pelletier
October 6, 2025 AT 00:33Europe offers a canvas where ambition meets tradition. The Gunners stride onto foreign soil with the echo of past victories resonating in every step. Arsenal’s recent form suggests a momentum that cannot be ignored. The absence of key attackers forces Arteta to re‑engineer his forward line. Martinelli and Trossard become the twin pillars of creativity and fire. Partey’s presence in midfield adds a layer of steel that balances youthful exuberance. Meanwhile Olympiacos arrives refreshed after a domestic triumph. Their unbeaten run fuels confidence that can unsettle even seasoned opponents. En‑Nesyri’s aerial prowess poses a constant threat in the box. The tactical battle will likely revolve around midfield dominance. Arteta’s 4‑2‑3‑1 may morph into a fluid shape to exploit spaces. Mendilibar’s side could press high to capitalize on any defensive lapses. The historical coin‑flip adds a psychological edge that both managers respect. Fans chanting “One No 1” create an atmosphere that can galvanize the home side. The result will shape the group dynamics for the next fixtures. In the end football remains a beautiful paradox of skill, will, and chance.
Cheyenne Walker
October 6, 2025 AT 18:53From a tactical standpoint Arsenal’s midfield depth will be crucial; Partey’s defensive coverage combined with Kiwior’s forward runs offers a balanced approach that can dictate tempo against Olympiacos.
Jo Simpkinson
October 7, 2025 AT 13:13Ah the drama of a “no‑draw” history – it’s like the clubs are cursed to avoid peace. Can you imagine the suspense rolling into the 90th minute, the crowd on edge?
Darrell Kuykendall
October 8, 2025 AT 07:33Well folks, let’s keep our heads up, Arsenal have shown they can bounce back, and even with a few injuries, the squad depth is solid, so don’t count them out, keep the optimism alive!
Dean Obijekwu
October 9, 2025 AT 01:53Just watching the build‑up on the wing will be enough to get my heart racing.
finlay moss
October 9, 2025 AT 20:13Yo the Gunners might be missing Hincapié but they still got a solid backline, don’t let the hype fool ya, they’ll hold the fort just fine.
Carl Gough
October 10, 2025 AT 14:33Listen up: Olympiacos’s fresh legs are a ticking time‑bomb, and if they lock onto En‑Nesyri early, Arsenal’s defence will be in a whirlwind.
Rebecca Hayes
October 11, 2025 AT 08:53Strategically, the 4‑2‑3‑1 offers Arsenal flexibility – the double pivot can transition quickly, while the advanced midfielders stretch the Greek backline, creating pockets for incisive passes.
Jason Underhill
October 12, 2025 AT 03:13Sure, the hype is real 😒 but let’s not pretend Olympiacos isn’t just a well‑rested side with a few tricks up their sleeve.
Kirsten Wilson
October 12, 2025 AT 21:33Honestly the whole “no draw” thing is just a meme but it does add a lil extra spice to the night.
Michelle Roque
October 13, 2025 AT 15:53Looks like a classic showdown‑time.
Killian Lecrut
October 14, 2025 AT 10:13Nothing like a good ol’ European night to get the blood pumping – hope the fans bring the noise!
Subi Sambi
October 15, 2025 AT 04:33The only thing more predictable than the odds is the arrogance of pundits who claim Olympiacos will be a pushover because of a “rest day” – reality bites.
Joshua Rainey
October 15, 2025 AT 22:53Drama alert – this match is basically a Shakespearean tragedy wrapped in a football kit, and everyone’s waiting for the final act to drop the curtain.
Gail Robb
October 16, 2025 AT 17:13Why are people still hyping this as a “must‑win” for Arsenal? It’s just another group game, get over it.
Pradeep Chabdal
October 17, 2025 AT 11:33From an analytical perspective, the statistical parity between the clubs underscores a broader European equilibrium, suggesting that tactical nuance will outweigh raw talent.
andy heri
October 18, 2025 AT 05:53Let’s keep it respectful – both sides deserve credit for making it this far, and the fans on both sides bring an incredible energy that enriches the sport.
Jeremy Perlman
October 19, 2025 AT 00:13Fact check: Arsenal have a higher possession rate than Olympiacos in the last three fixtures; they also complete more passes per game; however, they concede more shots on target; this duality is the crux of the upcoming encounter.
George Georgakopoulos
October 19, 2025 AT 18:33Some say the match is fixed – they’re probably right.