Bayern Munich vs Arsenal

Allianz Arena sets the stage for the return leg of an evenly-poised Champions League quarter-final tie between Bayern Munich and Arsenal.

Bayern Munich’s first appearance in the Champions League semi-finals since 2020/21 became a distinct possibility after a 2-2 first-leg draw in London last week. Given the Bavarians’ formidable record when drawing the first leg away from home in UEFA two-legged ties (W22, L3), it’s hard to bet against Thomas Tuchel’s side to bounce back from a disappointing weekend. Despite claiming a 2-0 home win against Cologne, Bayern officially surrendered their 11-year grip on the Bundesliga as Bayer Leverkusen lifted their maiden title on Sunday. Keen to make amends on the continental front, the hosts can draw inspiration from an awe-inspiring home record against English opposition (W17, D7, L4). But eliminations in their last three Champions League quarter-finals mean Bayern can’t take anything for granted.

On the other hand, Arsenal lost their stranglehold on the Premier League summit over the weekend as Aston Villa celebrated a 2-0 victory at the Emirates, falling two points adrift of perennial champions Manchester City. Things could soon go from bad to worse for the Gunners if they fail to reach the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2008/09. It would increase the likelihood of another trophyless season, yet four consecutive exits across their last four two-legged ties against German opponents can’t inspire much confidence. In fact, those four eliminations all came at the hands of Bayern, suggesting their bid to defy a historically dreadful record in the Champions League quarter-finals (W2, L5) faces a substantial psychological barrier.