The Gunners are back, and the fans are hoping for a successful season like no other. Mikel Arteta’s side had a Premier League debut against home-placed Crystal Palace, a match that opened the 2022/23 Premier League season.
In the 2021/22 season, the gunners finished 5th with 69 points, which was a comeback from the previous years where they finished the league in positions that could allow them to play the Europa League. It’s a better time for punters to enjoy the odds as they do with NFL week 13 odds.
However, the last season saw the gunners almost qualify for the UEFA champions league but were denied the chance by the defiant Tottenham, who made it to the top four. The UEFA champions league will see the PL champions Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham play.
Crystal Palace in the 2021/22 seasons finished 12 with 48 points. Wilfred Zaha, together with Conor Gallagher, were notable players who helped the team emerge victorious, beating strong opponents and retaining their spot in the premier league.
2023 Season Begins
In their opening match, Crystal palace was host to Arsenal. This was the first encounter in the new season as the two teams haven’t met lately. Patrick Vieira’s side looked sharp but went down 2-0 to the defiant visitors.
Initially, Arsenal looked threatening in the first few minutes at Selhurst Park and maintained the lead after the opening goal from Martinelli, who also made history with his effort goal.
The former city player Zinchenko shined on his debut for Arsenal as his amazing assist resulted in a goal, while his counterpart Gabriel Jesus gave the crystal palace defense a hard time with amazing aerial threats and nice touches and passes.
However, his attempts were off target as the Crystal palace defenders could not allow him past the goal.
Aaron Ramsdale was also impressive, producing epic saves that denied Crystal Palace an equalizer. Even though his passing was not accurate, he remained firm in keeping a clean sheet for the gunners.
Ben White, on the other side, had a tough time against the flexible Wilfred Zaha. Saliba, the French player, had an impressive PL debut against very experienced players.
According to Mikel Arteta, the youngster at 21 impressed and looked calm and composed. Arteta is hopeful that the boy will have a great season ahead.
Xhaka had his first yellow card after an intentional dive. His passing was, however, accurate and quick. I believe he could have done better in the final third.
The Crystal Palace Threat
Crystal palace made Arsenal fight for the game as it wasn’t an easy win. During the second half, Crystal was still behind at one and were putting effort into equalizing. A great display from Zaha, the Ivorian made the arsenal defense uncomfortable.
However, this did not bore any goal. On his Facebook page, Zaha said, “A frustrating night in the end, but it’s good to be back playing in front of you.” He is set for a bright season ahead despite the poor home start.
An own goal from Guehi ended Crystal palace’s hopes of equalizing. The ball flicked on his head into the net, making it 2-0. Saka was crossing the ball while the center back tried to head it out, but it went straight into the net.
As much as this was a big disappointment for the entire Palace team, they have a lot of lessons to pick up from the stats and return to their winning ways. Vieira is set to continue the season in a big way as he explores more options to strengthen his squad before the transfer window closes.
What’s Next for Arsenal and Crystal Palace
Now that Arsenal has begun their season with a win, their next fixture features Leicester City at home. Arsenal is set to impress their fans with a second win.
However, the tough Leicester may not allow this to happen. However, the Leicester transfer season has not been busy as the usual players are likely to keep their positions.
On the other hand, Crystal Palace is set to face Liverpool, who recently lost Mane to Bayern Munich. This could be another difficult game for Crystal Palace as it will be an away fixture. Olise missed the first game due to an injury and may be included in the next fixture.
Even though the game seems tough, Vieira may still pull a surprise as he has done before when facing big teams. Let’s wait and see!
