Gunners’ Dominance Against Bayern Munich Despite Harry Kane’s Form
Fireworks are guaranteed when Arsenal entertain Bayern Munich in a thrilling Champions League quarter-final, first leg at the Emirates Stadium. But they will be provided by rocket shots and sparkling performances on the pitch rather than pyrotechnics released by supporters in the stands. Bayern fans have been banned from the match after setting off fireworks which ended up on the playing surface at Copenhagen and Lazio, and their absence could be a key factor in the opening 90 minutes of a mouth-watering engagement in north London.
The Gunners head into the fixture in banging form and are top of the Premier League on goal difference while the visitors will lose their Bundesliga crown if Bayer Leverkusen win just one of their last six matches. Mikel Arteta’s side have won 11 of their last 13 matches in all competitions, with the only defeat being a 1-0 last-16 defeat at Porto which was overturned when they won the tie on penalties. They also gained a terrific point from a 0-0 draw at Manchester City. A watertight defence has kept a clean sheet in seven out of their last ten games and they have not shipped more than one goal since the 2-0 FA Cup exit at home to Liverpool at the beginning of January.
In contrast, Bayern have lost five of their last ten games, have kept opponents without a goal just once in their last 12 and have been significantly hindered by injuries to key players. The good news for head coach Thomas Tuchel, who is leaving at the end of the season, is that Harry Kane returned from an ankle injury to score in the 3-2 defeat at Heidenheim at the weekend. That was the England captain’s 42nd goal for club and country this term and he loves finding the net against Arsenal, having got on the scoresheet 14 times in 19 appearances against the Gunners while with Tottenham.
Bukayo Saka should be fit to start after suffering a knock in Saturday’s 3-0 victory at Brighton and is 13/2 to break the deadlock with Betfair and Paddy Power and 9/4 with the same firms to score at any time.
Despite Harry Kane’s impressive form and history against Arsenal, the Gunners head into the match as the dominant force. With a solid defense and an impressive run of wins, Arsenal are in prime position to take a healthy lead into the second leg in Germany. The absence of Bayern fans is also a significant advantage for the Gunners.
However, Bayern Munich cannot be underestimated. While they have faced some recent struggles and injuries to key players, Harry Kane’s return from injury adds a threat to Arsenal’s defense. Kane has a remarkable scoring record against Arsenal and will be looking to continue his goalscoring exploits in this match.
The inclusion of Bukayo Saka, who is expected to be fit despite suffering a knock, adds another element of danger to Arsenal’s attack. Saka has been in excellent form and will be eager to make an impact in this crucial Champions League clash.
In conclusion, Arsenal’s dominance and recent form give them the edge over Bayern Munich in this quarter-final clash. While Harry Kane poses a threat, Arsenal’s solid defense and attacking options should see them secure a victory in the first leg. The absence of Bayern fans also works in Arsenal’s favor. It promises to be an exciting and explosive match at the Emirates Stadium.