It’s déjà vu all over again as these sides meet at the last 16 stage for the second year running. Bayern narrowly prevailed on away goals last time round, but Arsenal are a different proposition this season, with their perennial attacking artistry now buttressed by steely defensive resolve.
But Bayern can be beaten. As Manchester City proved in 34 mad minutes back in December, that much-vaunted defence is not invulnerable. In Cazorla and Ozil, Arsenal have the midfield magicians who can unlock the German strongbox. And with the talismanic Franck Ribery missing for Bayern, Arsene Wenger’s side must try to secure a precious first-leg advantage.
KICK OFF: Wednesday, 7.45pm
LAST THREE MEETINGS:
Bayern Munich 0 Arsenal 2 (Giroud, Koscielny), Champions League, March 2013
Arsenal 1 (Podolski) Bayern Munich 3 (Kroos, Muller, Mandzukic), Champions League, February 2013
Arsenal 1 (Henry) Bayern Munich 0, Champions League, March 2005
STATS:
English sides have won 7 of the last 10 Champions League meetings with German clubs – but the away side has triumphed in 8 of those matches.
Arsenal have lost their last 3 Champions League last 16 ties, while Bayern have won 4 of their last 5.
4 of the 5 goals that Arsenal have conceded in Europe this season have come in the last 20 minutes.
Bayern average 2.5 goals away from home this season, the highest in Europe’s top five leagues.
ODDS:
Arsenal to win: 4.5
Bayern Munich to win: 1.75
Draw: 3.75
TV: Live on Sky Sports 1 at 7pm.
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