Five reasons Arsenal will defeat Bayern Munich
By Roy Emanuel
Strong defence and goalkeeping
Bayern will move towards goal in a variety of ways, with Lewandowski’s skill at the top of the formation and numerous attacking midfield options. But Arsenal will be able to counter with a solid defensive system and a world-class goalkeeper in Petr Cech.
Arsenal’s back-line have been a tremendous strength throughout the Premier League campaign, evidenced in the club’s impressive unbeaten streak over the past few months. Laurent Koscielny, Hector Bellerin and summer signing Shkodran Mustafi have been outstanding at clearing out the opposing side’s scoring opportunities and getting the ball forward in transition.
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German international centre-back Per Mertesacker is recovering after a knee injury and should be available against Bayern as well.
The Gunners have great defensive depth, with Kieran Gibbs and Gabriel all able to contribute in various ways. Squad rotation certainly may be an issue for Arsene Wenger when the two matches against Bayern approach.
In Cech, Arsenal know they have a goalkeeper who has performed at the highest levels. A member of the Chelsea squad that defeated Bayern in the 2011-12 Champions League final should give the Gunners plenty of confidence and maybe even a psychological advantage over some of the players still on the Munich side.
The Bavarians bring a lethal attack, but Arsenal’s defensive core will be more than prepared for the challenge ahead.