Arsenal Barca may not be an open game

We have heard enough things over the past few days of Messi being a GOD, the game will be a footballing spectacle, Fab fitness issues, Henry's home coming and lots more. I am as excited as any other footballing fan and as nervous as any gooner! Its seems like the game could have more than 5 goals since both the teams prefer an open game and possession and scoring goals. However, do not forget the fact that its a game that will be played over two legs. Dont get me wrong but this is just the first half of that and teams tend to be more defensive over the first leg.

It seems like we will be playing without Fabregas. If Wenger is post phoning taking a decision over Fab, that means he is not fit and avoiding giving Barca the best news possible. If that is the case, I would think Nasri will fill that role and Rosicky or Walcott might start on the wing. Reports suggest that Iniesta might be injured for the first leg and might not play full 90 minutes for the return leg. I honestly do not know whether its good or bad.

As for the game plan, we hardly have a plan B. It will be passing and movement from both the teams. Clichy will need more cover and its Denilson/Diaby/Song who will need to do that. Arshavin cant really provide cover and we should rather use him for counter attacks. If you recall the last year's semis and also the previous chelski and manu games, we have been scored against by counter attacks. Barca have some good, fast players and I fear they could score on the counter attack. I really am scared of that. We dont have the balls to tackle and stop the counter. Wenger thinks its anti-football and it is but if you tackle instead of trying to block the ball, there is a good chance of stopping the attack.

Henry will receive the warm reception that he truly deserves. Barca might play an extra central midfielder in Kieta and Toure. We may need Bendtner to help our defense especially for corners and set pieces. The fixture is awesome and I am very much up for it.

Arsenal Team (IMO)

Almunia :(

Sagna Campbell TV5 Clichy

Nasri Song Denilson/Diaby

Rosicky Bendtner Arshavin

Bench: Fabianski, Gallas(Campbell one of them), Denilson/Diaby, walcott, Eboue, eduardo, Vela (ha ha ha)

BARCA:

valdez

Alves Pique Puyol Abidal

Xavi Kieta Toure

Messi Ibra UNKNOWN


Prediction:

I am too nervous as of now, 24 hours before the game. Honestly, who is not!
Being a gooner, prediction are always biased. But I am going to say

2-1 to the Arsenal. Arshavin and Bendtner to score. Messi for them.

COMMON YOU GOONERS. ITS NOT A REHEARSAL, ITS THE ACTUAL THING!!! Lets GOOOOOOOO!!!!