Arsenal travel to Lisbon with a very clear idea of what kind of game awaits them. Sporting CP is a side with structure, repetition and very defined strengths, which makes this tie feel tight.

That expectation becomes stronger when looking at one specific area. As we previously covered, both teams are among the most effective in Europe when it comes to set pieces.

Arsenal have built a major part of their attacking output around dead-ball situations this season. They have scored 19 set-piece goals in the Premier League, with those situations accounting for over 30% of their total league goals.

Sporting is not far behind in profile. They have scored 15 set-piece goals in Liga Portugal, the highest in the competition. Those goals represent around 22% of their total.

Sporting CP will be without key players for Arsenal

That balance, however, is affected by team news. Portuguese press confirmed Sporting will be missing several players, and the most important absence is clear: Morten Hjulmand will not play due to suspension.

The captain’s absence is significant on multiple levels. He is the organiser in midfield, the player who sets the tempo and...