Alexis Sanchez vs Mats Hummels
Alexis Sanchez was significant in the Gunners’ crucial win over a revived Hull City side. It was the Chilean’s brace on either side of half-time that got Arsenal three valuable points and much more than that, the confidence that went missing amidst the untimely defeats and heavy criticism.
The 28-year-old kept his composure from the penalty spot taking his goal tally to 17 along with nine assists. He is currently the leading goal scorer in the Premier League followed by Romelu Lukaku, Diego Costa and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Sanchez’s off the ball work rate has been his greatest strength and if Arsenal manage to keep Bayern off their penalty area, the Chilean has the prowess to fall back, get the ball and create chances up front. And with the likes of Ozil, Walcott, Chamberlain and Bellerin ready to make the runs at every available opportunity, Sanchez could be Arsenal’s catalyst.
Ancelotti will have his experienced centre-half Matts Hummels to cover him. Since the big move from Borussia Dortmund last summer, the German international has been quite impressive at the back for Bayern. He has a defence success rate of 56%, where he has won 66% of his average duels with a passing accuracy of 89%. Sanchez is unlikely to get much space to operate his trade in Bayern’s attacking third.
