WOW. Is the first word that comes to mind when reflecting on last nights game against the German powerhouse. With both teams on twelve points and making it four wins from four in the previous game week. This game has been vastly considered the biggest game of the current Champions League campaign, some even saying that these two teams are the two best teams in the world. Everyone expected a tight compact game, with arguably Bayern being deemed the favourites by the media going into the game. With The Arsenal going away to Stamford Bridge on the weekend (who have just beaten Barcelona giving them a massive confidence boost.) It became vitally important that Arsenal win this game! Not only for the points but for the statement.
Before the game, everyone was hesitant as to what the line ups should be for The Gunners due to the congestion period coming up, we need to keep our key players fit and firing. However, the line up was near full strength, with an inch of rotation. Mosquera in for Hincapie and Lewis Skelly coming in for Calafiori. The First half seemed to be very tight, with the German side keeping more of the ball. However, in the 22nd minute of the game. A trademark Saka corner landed perfectly on the head of Timber. The set piece machine that is Arsenal strikes again. After the goal Mikel Arteta’s side, the Gunners, seemed very much in control of the situation. However, one ball over the top and a perfectly weighted cross from ex- gunner Gnabry to wonder kid Karl putting the German side level going into the break.
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The second half kicks off with the boys looking very sharp both on and off the ball. With the boys having a few chances on goal coming from the make shift number nine Mikel Merino and Declan Rice forcing a save from Manuel Neuer the game remained 1-1 until the substitutions made in the 68th minute. These being Martinelli for Bukayo Saka and Ricardo Calafiori. To say these changes had an immediate effect on the game would be an understatement. One minute after the substitution, the impressive Declan Rice plays the ball to Calafiori down the left hand side who puts a inch perfect ball to Madueke to score his first goal for the club! A true demonstration of the fantastic tactical mind of Mikel Arteta, with Madueke switching sides due to the sub and Calafiori assisting with his first touch, clearly demonstrating the depth and strength in the side.
I was pleasantly surprised about how the boys reacted to the goal. In past games, we have been accused of sitting back after gaining the lead, leading to points being lost or a more uncomfortable watch. However, the boys kept applying pressure to the Germans, forcing them to come out and press us. This is exactly what lead to the third goal. A inch perfect ball from Eze to Martinelli who beat Neuer to slot the goal into an open goal. A very similar goal to our equaliser against Manchester City.
Overall, the result it impressive. However, what I think it is more impressive the manner of how the victory played out. The boys showered hunger, fight and determination to gain the three points against the best in form team in Europe (who had not lost this season.) This gives the boys confidence going into potentially our biggest game of the season against Chelsea on Sunday, which I am extremely optimistic for now. Also one more mention, DECLAN RICE.
Images courtesy of Reuters/Action Images