The UEFA Champions League quarter-final draw has set the stage for an exciting match between Arsenal and Bayern Munich. This game holds special significance for Bayern’s Harry Kane, as he returns to play in North London for the first time since leaving Tottenham in the summer. Having witnessed Mikel Arteta’s side confidently dispatch Brighton 3-0 on Saturday, Kane knows better than most what his team is up against.
Arsenal’s Impressive Form and Defensive Strength
Arsenal is currently fighting for Premier League glory and is unbeaten in their last seven competitive matches, winning six and drawing one. They even secured a victory over Porto on penalties to reach this stage of the Champions League. Defensively, the Londoners have been solid in Europe this season, not conceding a single goal in a UCL home game (winning all four). However, it’s worth noting that the last time they failed to keep a clean sheet in a Champions League match at home was when Bayern hammered them 5-1 in March 2017.
Bayern Munich, on the other hand, has been dominant in their recent head-to-head meetings with Arsenal, winning the last three encounters by a 5-1 scoreline. However, their recent slip-up, squandering a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 to Heidenheim, serves as a reminder that they cannot take anything for granted. Currently sitting 16 points behind Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, the Champions League remains their best chance of picking up silverware this season.
Bayern Munich’s European Threat and Record against English Sides
Bayern Munich has shown their strength in Europe, overturning a 1-0 first-leg defeat against Lazio in the round of 16 to win 3-1 on aggregate. This victory demonstrates their resilience and ability to perform in European competitions, despite their struggles domestically. Their only defeat in this competition since losing to Manchester City last season came against Lazio. In their last seven Champions League knockout away games against English opposition, they have only lost to Manchester City, winning four and drawing two.
Two players to watch in this clash are Bukayo Saka for Arsenal and Harry Kane for Bayern Munich. Saka has been in fine form, scoring from the penalty spot in three of his last four goalscoring appearances for Arsenal. On the other hand, Kane has an impressive record against Arsenal, averaging almost a goal contribution per game in his 19 appearances against them (14 goals, 3 assists).
Arsenal’s Struggles against German Clubs
Arsenal’s recent history against German clubs in the Champions League has not been favorable. They have lost their last four two-legged ties against German opponents, all to Bayern Munich. This adds an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming clash, as Arsenal seeks to break this streak and make a statement in European competition.