Arsenal v Blackburn Rovers
The FA Cup, Semi-Final
Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
16 April 2005, 12.15pm



Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia says the Gunners must treat Saturday's FA Cup Semi-Final against Blackburn as if it were The Final itself.

The Spanish star was one of the heroes of Arsenal's Fifth Round victory over Sheffield United, helping them to win a penalty shoot-out at Bramall Lane.

Now he is hoping the Gunners can continue their fine run by beating Blackburn this weekend and lifting the trophy in May. But he knows it will not be easy.

He said: "We are the favourites for the Semi-Final, but these type of matches are always very difficult and for us it's as if it were a Final.

"With the league in the hands of Chelsea, we're only thinking about these two Cup ties ahead of us and it's necessary that we win them.

"Blackburn are a quick team who fight hard and we know they will make it difficult for us, but we are better than them in all senses and we have to prove it."

Arsenal fans are already dreaming of overcoming Blackburn and playing Manchester United in The Final - with a chance to avenge the defeat at Old Trafford earlier this season that ended a 49-match unbeaten run.

But Almunia insists it doesn't matter who Arsenal face in The Final - United or Newcastle - as long as they get there.

He said: "I'm not thinking about The Final and I don't mind the opponents if we get there. Manchester United would be hard, but I see Arsenal capable of beating them or Newcastle in The Final.

"We went through a tough period for a couple of months, but now we are playing better, especially in defence, and that will be key on Saturday."