Bayern Munich will face Arsenal in a pivotal Champions League league-phase match on Wednesday, with both teams unbeaten and tied on goal difference. The German leaders hold a slight edge with more goals scored, setting up a test of Arsenal's perfect defensive record against Bayern's potent attack led by Harry Kane. Both sides enter with strong form across competitions.
Bayern Munich and Arsenal, the top two teams in the Champions League league phase, meet in London for the fifth round on Wednesday. Each has secured four victories with a goal difference of 11, but Bayern leads after scoring 14 goals compared to Arsenal's 11. Arsenal remains the only team yet to concede in the league phase, while Bayern has been scored on three times.
Bayern's attack has been prolific, averaging 3.5 goals per game in the competition and scoring in every match this season. They recently beat Paris Saint-Germain 2-1. Harry Kane has been central, with five Champions League goals this season—tied for second behind Victor Osimhen's six—and 26 goals across club and country in 19 matches. Kane acknowledged Arsenal's defensive strength, saying, “Arsenal and PSG are two different teams. I think Arsenal are a bit stronger defensively. They make it difficult for their opponents. But we have to analyze them and find out where we can hurt them.”
Bayern Munich CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen expressed confidence ahead of the fixture, stating, “We have a lot of self-confidence, we never get nervous. Arsenal know that we’re in good form.” He added respect for the hosts: “We’ll approach the game with respect; Arsenal are top of the Premier League for a reason. It will certainly be a tough match.” Arsenal has conceded just six goals in 12 Premier League games and scored 24, while Bayern has won 16 of 17 games this season.
Injuries could impact both sides. For Bayern, Lennart Karl is unsure, with Jamal Musiala and Alphonso Davies confirmed out. Arsenal faces doubts over Martin Ødegaard and Viktor Gyökeres, alongside absences of Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Magalhães.