Arsenal took a trip to the Allianz Arena to embark on their second-leg match against Bayern Munich. They had initially drawn 2-2 at the Emirates, in a game that proved a bit tricky for them. However, Mikel Arteta’s side understood how much of a difficulty this second tie would also be.
The atmosphere at the Allianz Arena was expected to be hostile and frantic. Especially after all the Bayern fans were refused attendance in the first leg. This was due to their misconduct at Bayern’s previous Champions League game.
Arsenal’s previous game, which was in the league was a wake-up call for them. They had lost painfully at home to Aston Villa. This in return hampered their League title pursuit. Now traveling to Munich, they needed to show a solid response and raise the team’s morale. But somehow something was missing for them.
Arsenal loses 1-0 to Bayern Munich
The Gunners began their game with a bit of calmness. They tried to keep possession as much as they could. Thus therefore with the hopes of carving the Bavarians open at the back. It was a bit inconvenient with the noise and the foggy atmosphere. Soon they started to lose possession. Laimer and Goreztka were all over the pitch looking for breaks.
Bayern saw a couple of quick breaks and counters. Kane and Mazraoui nearly got in on goal. Arsenal managed to hold on. Crosses and corners from Kimmich nearly pulled them apart, but Raya and the defense held their own.
Later in the first half, Arsenal started gaining momentum. A deflected shot from Odegaard pulled a sublime save from Neuer. The Gunner’s tactics began to prevail as they started pulling through. Havertz and Martinelli all saw some couple chances but they were nullified by Neuer and the defense. Also, the front line lacked a bit of sharpness. This allowed Neur’s fantastic positioning to hinder them from a scoring chance.
The second half came and the Bavarians blitzed the Arsenal defense. Goretzka had the ball striking the bar, after a cross from Kimmich. Arsenal had their chances but Neuer’s composure and Bayern’s defense still proved to be dominant.
The Breakthrough came with a floating cross that met Kimmich’s flying header, beating Raya to the post. The goal shaked the North London team, allowing Bayern to penetrate more. Only Sane’s poor finish hindered them from scoring more.
Late in the game, the gunners tried their damnedest best to get an equalizer. But it remained the same along. The Bavarians maintained a strong composed backline.
The Inexperience of Mikel Arteta’s Side
Mikel Arteta’s side struggled to penetrate the Bayern’s defense. Additionally, they also struggled to beat the experienced Bavarian goalkeeper. It was no doubt the first time most of the Arsenal players were playing against such a caliber of players. Notwithstanding the likes of Jesus, Jorginho, and Havertz who have participated in the Champions League in the past. Yet It seems like the first time for the rest. Moreso it also looked like the first time of playing in such an atmosphere. Fear and low morale would be expected from the Gunner’s side. And It was there!
Somehow they failed to match the energies and the confidence of the Bavarians. They also couldn’t solve or react positively to the defense puzzle thrown at them by Bayern. In the end, it cost them.
More Hurdles Ahead for Them
Arsenal will have to muscle up, despite their disappointing loss at Munich. They’ll be traveling to Wolves in their Next EPL game. A strong response would be crucial if they want to have a shot at winning the league.
About the Author
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