Both clubs are at the top of their respective leagues. So in a sense, it can be said that the Champions League is a battle of the two best. Both teams have 12 points. Arsenal has the advantage in that battle. Because they are playing at home. Of course, it will not be easy. The opponent is the six-time Champions League winner Bayern Munich.
The German champions have won 17 of their 18 matches in all competitions this season, drawing the other. Behind such success is Harry Kane’s excellent form. He has played in every match. Kane is creating incredible statistics this season too – 24 goals in 18 matches for Bayern, and five in five for England.
Kane scored a penalty in the quarter-finals of the Champions League against Arsenal in the 2023-24 season. Bayern won over two legs. Kane’s goals in 21 matches against Arsenal are 15. So the ‘key’ to breaking down the Gunners’ defense will be in his hands.
Mikel Arteta’s team have once again put up a great defence – they have not conceded a single goal in the Champions League. They have conceded just six goals in the Premier League, the best defence in Europe’s top five leagues.
Kane will have to take on extra responsibility to crack that defence. “I know I’m not just a goalscorer. I can help the team in many ways, whether it’s passing, one-on-one situations or reducing team pressure,” he said.
Bayern, despite being in great form, are weak at stopping set-pieces. And that is Arsenal’s big strength. All four of Bayern’s goals conceded in the last two matches have come from set-pieces. Coach Vincent Kompany said: “We have a problem with set-pieces. It’s nothing to hide. Arsenal’s analysts will see that too. We have to show our personality, we have to resist these things. But we are confident in the team.”
Champions PSG take the field today against Kane’s former club Tottenham. Real Madrid’s opponents are Olympiacos. Xabi Alonso’s team suffered a setback before the match against the Greek club. Goalkeepers Thibaut Courtois and Dean Hausen will not be available for this match due to injuries.
