3 reasons Arsenal can beat Bayern Munich

Arsenal and Bayern Munich will face off in the biggest tie of matchday five of the UEFA Champions League.

Recent meetings between the two sides in the competition have ended in favour of the Bavarians.

However, Arsenal have been in terrific form in the competition this season, with four wins in four matches with clean sheets.

Bayern Munich are yet to lose a game in all competitions this season, which makes Vincent Kompany’s side the most-inform team in Europe so far.

While there is no overwhelming favorite in the blockbuster fixture on Wednesday night, the Gunners, playing in front of their home fans, have been formidable and can take on any team.

3 reasons Arsenal can beat Bayern Munich

1. Terrific Form and Home Advantage

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There is a reason why Arsenal are arguably the best team in Europe so far this season. The Gunners are unbeaten in their last 15 matches across all competitions (13 wins, 2 draws), including four consecutive Champions League victories with an 11-0 aggregate scoreline. Mike Arteta’s men have won 11 of their last 12 games overall, with the latest being a comprehensive 4-1 win over Tottenham in the North London Derby on Sunday. Arsenal have won all their matches this season at the Emirates Stadium in the competition. Their last win was a dominant 4-0 win over Atletico Madrid.

2. Solid Defensive Record

Arsenal are the only team yet to concede in the UEFA Champions League this season after four matches. They have also allowed the fewest shots, seven among other participants. Arsenal have maintained a consistent line-up in defense with David Raya in goal, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes centrally, while Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori have locked down the full-back positions. Bayern Munich carry a potent attack with Harry Kane leading the line with the help of Michael Olise and Serge Gnabry on the sides. However, the Gunners have faced strong attacking line-ups this season and have stood their ground. It will come as no surprise if Arsenal keep a clean sheet against the Bavarians after 90 minutes on Wednesday. Even though Gabriel will miss the tie, Piero Hincapié played in his stead against Tottenham and was solid – a testament to Arsenal’s squad depth.

3. Bayern Munich’s Absentees

Bayern will miss key players, including suspended winger Luis Díaz (serving a three-match Champions League ban after his red card against PSG), injured midfielder Jamal Musiala (ankle), and defender Alphonso Davies (knee), which seemingly limit their attacking flair and highlight defensive vulnerabilities. Bayern Munich conceded twice against Freiburg over the weekend and are likely to do the same against Arsenal’s attacking threats. The Gunners can also exploit Bayern’s recent struggles in set-pieces, having conceded both goals from corners in their 6-2 win over Freiburg.