Arsenal, Chelsea clash could blow title race wide open

LONDON, England:

The top-of-the-table clash between Arsenal and Chelsea on Sunday has the potential to blow the English Premier League title race wide open.

Alternatively, it could leave it in danger of turning into a procession.

Arsenal, six points clear at the top, head to Stamford Bridge on a wave of optimism and a growing belief they will end their long wait for a first league title since 2004. With a squad regarded as possibly the strongest in Europe, Mikel Arteta's team is undefeated in 16 games in all competitions, with 14 wins on that run.

BIGGEST PRIZES

After three straight years as runners-up, it feels like Arsenal's time has come and Wednesday's demolition of European powerhouse Bayern Munich was further evidence of their credentials to win the biggest prizes, not only the title but perhaps the Champions League as well.

With defending champions Liverpool in freefall and Manchester City also off the pace, it could be Arsenal's title to lose.

The closest challengers are second-place Chelsea, winner of the Club World Cup in July and with a squad that cost more than $1 billion. But they are possibly ahead of the curve in terms of mounting a serious title charge.

Coach Enzo Maresca is only in his second season in the English Premier League and has a squad packed with inexperience, but Chelsea produced their standout performance of the campaign to beat Barcelona 3-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The clash with Arsenal will be the sternest test yet of their title credentials.

KEY MATCHUPS

While Chelsea vs Arsenal is the biggest match of the weekend, there are key clashes elsewhere for teams hoping to stay in touch at the top.

City can temporarily move up to second with a win against Leeds while Liverpool, on the back of six losses in seven in the league, are at West Ham.

Brazil forward Estevao has quickly established himself at Chelsea and has been one of the most exciting players this season, with nine goals in his last 13 games for club and country. That included his outstanding strike against Barcelona this week and his late winner against Liverpool last month.

Leandro Trossard limped off in the first half of Arsenal's game against Bayern, with Arteta saying afterwards he did not know the extent of the injury.

- AP