Brentford are set to face Arsenal at the Gtech Community Stadium on Thursday, 12th of February 2026. That’s when the Bees will take to the pitch at 8:00 PM GMT – 9:00 PM for those in West Africa. And what a test for Thomas Frank‘s men! – after all, they’re sitting pretty in seventh and flying high, really creating some high quality chances. Not to be outdone, Mikel Arteta‘s Arsenal are riding high at the top of the table – six points clear of the chasing pack and looking to stretch their lead further before they get a bit of a breather, coming off a strong run that’s seen them keep some clean sheets.
Match Summary
Arsenal have been top of the table and their recent record against Brentford is spot on. They thrashed the Bees 2-0 back in December 2025 with Mikel Merino & Bukayo Saka on the scoresheet. And in case that wasn’t enough, Arsenal have won their last four away games against Brentford in all competitions – and they’ve not lost to them in most of their recent matches. On the other hand, Brentford have a very strong home record this season, conjuring up loads of chances (76 big ones – one of the league’s best) with their direct and organized style posing a real threat.
Now Gtech Community Stadium isn’t the easiest place to visit, but Arsenal have a good record here, with their keeper William Saliba and Gabriel combining well at the back. We’re expecting a cracker of a London derby, full of goals and high intensity – Brentford’s set-pieces and counter-attacks looking to test Arsenal’s rearguard. Arsenal meanwhile are out to prove they can shrug off any midweek jitters and keep the pressure on for that league title – and close the gap on City.
Head to head: – it’s Arsenal who have the edge lately, but Brentford‘s current form makes this by no means an easy trip for the Gunners.
Possible Lineups
Brentford: probably a 4-3-3 system – Flekken in goal, with Ajer, Collins, Pinnock and Roerslev across the back four. Norgaard, Janelt and Jensen will be the central midfield trio, with Mbeumo, Wissa and Schade up front – its usual suspects like Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa leading the attack, with a bit of creative sparkle from midfield.
Thomas Frank has a settled squad – no major new injuries to report, which keeps the team looking strong.
Arsenal: also probably a 4-3-3 – with Raya in goal, Hincapié, Saliba, Timber and Gabriel in the back four and Rice & Zubimendi in central midfield with Madueke & Havertz and Martinelli out wide. And of course Bukayo Saka who’s been a key player for them in attack.
Mikel Arteta has a few minor worries over Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard & Merino, but the core of the team remains strong.
Declan Rice will anchor midfield, and Bukayo Saka is sure to be causing problems with his pace and goal-scoring ability.
Prediction
Arsenal are strong favourites to win this one in my view. They’ve been in form for a while now and their defensive solidity is one of their biggest strengths. They’ve had the better of recent encounters too, with a 2-0 win in December 2025, so that bodes well for them. And history’s on their side – this will be a tough one for the Bees. Still, Brentford can still cause an upset with some of the pace & finish of Bryan Mbeumo upfront, but I think Arsenal will just about edge it with a professional win to protect their top spot.
Final score prediction: Brentford 1-2 Arsenal
