Champions League: Arsenal v Montpellier match preview

A look ahead to tonight's Champions League fixture at the Emirates

(Getty Images)

Arsenal have by no means had it all their own way in their attempts to top Group B, having dropped five out of a possible six points in their two recent encounters with Schalke.

The Gunners can ensure qualification to the last 16 with a win against their French opponents, should Schalke emerge victorious from their home game with Olympiakos.

Montpellier are rock bottom of the group on one point, and will need something of a minor miracle if they to reach the knockout stage. Their league form isn’t much better, registering one win in their last five games, and a confident Arsenal team looking to build on Saturday’s derby success will most likely make it two wins in a row.

KICK OFF: Wednesday, 7.45pm

PAST MEETINGS…

Montpellier 1 (Belhanda) Arsenal 2 (Podolski, Gervinho), Champions League, group stage, September 2012

STATS…

Current French Champions Montpellier have faced only one English team before this season’s Champions League, losing to Manchester United in the 1990/91 European Cup Winners’ Cup 3-1 on aggregate.

Arsenal’s overall home record against French opposition is won 3, drawn 3 and lost 2.

This season marks Montpellier’s first appearance in the Champions League proper, whereas the North London club are participating in their 15 campaign.

ODDS…

Arsenal to win: 1.4

Draw: 5.2

Montpellier to win: 10

TV: Live on Sky Sports 4 at 7.45pm, highlights Sky Sports 2 at 10pm