Taking on Arsenal is not an easy challenge at the best of times, but having lost two games in a row and sitting just three points above the relegation zone whilst the Gunners chase the Premier League crown is far from an ideal situation.
But that is the exact scenario that Swansea City find themselves in this evening, in a game that Alan Curtis claims is "imperative" not to lose, admitting that his side are "under pressure" as they face the possibility of losing a third game on the bounce.
Crucial game
Curtis is well aware that his side go into the game as "underdogs" but he believes they should travel with confidence in the fact that they have only ever lost one league game at the Emirates Stadium.
He wants his side to have belief that they can get a result due to their "good record" in London, but he acknowledges that the game will be tough. However as Arsenal's title hopes were dashed in defeat to Manchester United at the weekend, Curtis hopes to "exploit" any frailties that they may be showing.
Having watched the game against Manchester, Curtis believes there are "a couple of things we can look to exploit" but knows full well that the Gunners will be hoping to, "bounce back" with an immediate effect at Swansea's expense, making this a very difficult fixture.
Even though Curtis is confident in his Swansea side, he is also well aware of the position they find themselves in relation to the league table and the importance of picking up points which has made this match one they can't afford to lose, "we have to try get something," Curtis stated.
Matching defensive efforts
Despite the recent defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, Curtis is hoping that his team replicate the defensive performance they gave but insists they must "create more opportunities" by making the best out of their possession, especially against a team like Arsenal, who adopt a similar style of play to Spurs.
Losing the game tonight would put serious pressure on Swansea as the season draws to a close, and Arsenal haven't had a better opportunity in years to clinch the league title, making tonight's game crucial for both sides.