Bayern look the part
As Arsenal begin to pick up the pieces of what has been a disastrous couple of days, Bayern Munich showed that they are intent on not making they same mistakes that has seen them lose two Champions League finals in three years.
Whilst everybody seems to be dissecting Arsenal’s annual February-March capitulation it should not be overlooked that Bayern put on one of the most impressive team performances of the season by any team in any league.
During the first half an hour, in which they killed off Arsenal’s early spark with two goals, the Germans produced some sublime football. Their midfield were so calm on the ball that no pass appeared difficult nor was an play too rushed, even with Arsenal’s pressing.
Toni Kroos and Bastian Schweinsteiger form one of Europe’s finest midfields with Tomas Muller spearheading the attack. The fact that Bayern were able to leave Mario Gomez and Arjen Robben on the bench and still outclass the Gunners speaks volumes about the team’s depth.
They will be difficult to eliminate from the Champions League, not only because of how good they are; both defensively and going forward, but also because they have a chip on their shoulder; losing to Chelsea on home soil in the final last season is still very fresh in their minds.
It will take a near miracle for Arsenal to advance to the quarter finals, Bayern are extremely good at home and simply do not concede goals. In truth, Lukasz Podolski’s goal was a result of a moment of madness from Manuel Neuer rather than Arsenal’s endeavor.
Bayern will set their sights on going far in this season’s Champions League and it will take a team of some class and skill to stop their march to Wembley.
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