This article contains affiliate links to advertisers. The analysis is our own. Gamble Aware 18+
Mikel Arteta’s side won all eight matches in the opening stage of the competition and arrive in the knockout rounds full of confidence.
Standing in their way are Bayer Leverkusen, who navigated a tricky play-off tie against Olympiacos to reach the round of 16.
The German side have been solid defensively in recent European outings, keeping clean sheets in their last three Champions League games.
However, Arsenal’s consistency in Europe has been impressive. They are the only team in this season’s competition yet to trail at any point in a match.
Bayer Leverkusen v Arsenal tips
• Arsenal to win – 57/100 with Bet365
• Under 3.5 goals – 33/100 with Bet365
• Over 7 corners – 7/25 with Bet365
Odds courtesy of bet365. Correct at the time of publication and subject to change.
Arsenal to win
Arsenal’s Champions League form this season has been exceptional. They topped the league phase with eight wins from eight and are currently enjoying an 11-game unbeaten run in all competitions (W9, D2).
Their away form in Europe also supports the case for an Arsenal victory. The Gunners have won eight of their last nine away Champions League matches.
Leverkusen have historically struggled at this stage of the competition, losing 10 of their 12 Champions League round of 16 games. With Arsenal showing both attacking quality and defensive discipline, backing Arsenal to win at 57/100 looks a logical starting point.
Bet explanation: This bet wins if Arsenal beat Bayer Leverkusen regardless of the score.
Under 3.5 goals
Both teams are built on strong defensive structures, which could keep the scoring relatively controlled.
Leverkusen have kept clean sheets in their last three Champions League games and have seen only one of their last seven matches in the competition feature goals for both teams. Arsenal, meanwhile, have yet to trail in this season’s tournament and boast one of the strongest defensive records in the competition.
Knockout-stage first legs also tend to be more cautious affairs as both sides try to avoid conceding a decisive goal. With two tactically disciplined teams facing off, under 3.5 goals at 33/100 appears a sensible selection.
Bet expalantion: This bet wins if fewer than four goals are scored in the game between Leverkusen and Arsenal.
Over 7 corners
Arsenal’s high pressing and attacking style often forces opponents into defensive situations, which frequently leads to corners.
Leverkusen themselves generate chances from wide areas, with 43% of their opportunities in this season’s Champions League coming down the left flank, largely through the creative influence of Alejandro Grimaldo. That attacking approach naturally produces crosses and set-piece situations.
With both sides likely to push forward at different points in the match, the game should generate a steady stream of attacking phases and deliveries into the box. That makes over seven corners at 7/25 a strong supporting pick.
Bet explanation: This bet wins if there are more than seven corners in the game between Leverkusen and Arsenal.
Bayer Leverkusen v Arsenal odds
• Bayer Leverkusen – 9/2 with Bet365
• Draw – 16/5 with Bet365
• Arsenal – 57/100 with Bet365
Odds, correct at the time of publication, are subject to change.
Discover the Best Betting Bonuses
If you’re looking to take advantage of the Champions League matches for your bets, Flashscore is here to help. On our betting bonuses page, you’ll find some of the best promotions and bonus codes on the market.
The odds, correct at the time of publication, are subject to change.