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.
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