Tomorrow could deliver a special treat for Champions League viewers, when Arsenal travel to Bavaria’s capital to play Bayern Munich in Matchweek 3. It’s no exaggeration to say that this could be a sneak peak into next May’s final.
Gunners Winning; Not Always Well
Arsenal haven’t been perfect this season, as that 3-0 embarrassment against Brighton proved right before the international break. But it’s a testament to their grit and determination that even when they don’t perform at their best, they still find ways to win. Last weekend’s outing at Nottingham Forest is a good example. They dominated the possession but were frankly somewhat toothless in the attack. They had to wait until the 80th minute to get a shot on frame, courtesy of Noni Madueke. That was enough. Arsenal have failed to score in the first half of six of their seven league matches.
Just like this time last year, Arsenal’s success lies in its defense. They’ve yet to concede a goal in the Champions League. They’ve conceded the joint fewest goals (5) in the Premier League and have four clean sheets. When you’re this concrete in the back, you can afford to misfire up front every now and then.
Normally Brilliant Bayern Somewhat Dulled
Let’s be clear… even a slight duller Bayern Munich is still a shiny, gorgeous object. The defending German treble champions have already lifted the Beckenbauer Supercup. They’re also atop the Bundesliga standings, even if they’ve already suffered two draws in eight matches. Last week on the road they drew 3-3 with Norwegian minnows Viking FK, a shocking result they’ll be looking to bounce back from. Happily, the Allianz Arena continues to be a fortress; they’ve won every home match so far this season.
Who to Watch: Arsenal
It starts with the defenders. Ezri Konsa and Gabriel should hold down the middle, while Jurriën Timber (returned from injury) and Ricardo Calafiori flank them on the right and left, respectively. It remains to be seen whether Bayern will allow those two to drive upfield, or take advantage of their tendency to counter. Kai Havertz is the likely striker, and Bukayo Saka and Madueke will be on the wings feeding him crosses. Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice and Miles Lewis-Skelly are the triangle in the middle.
Who to Watch: Bayern Munich
Normally this would include two last names totaling nine letters: Harry KANE and Michael OLISE. This pair have scored nine goals apiece across all competitions, leading the team as well as all of Germany. But Olise is suspended after drawing two yellows in last week’s contest in Stavanger. This should give Ismael Saibari a start. In goal, Manuel Neuer continues to defy Father Time and has made twelve starts. In the midfield, Joshua Kimmich, Lennart Karl and Konrad Laimer dictate the tempo.
Sadly, Jamal Musiala is out with a thigh injury. Manager Vincent Kompany might not be in the dugout, as he is suffering from a viral infection.
Match Details & Prediction
Where: Allianz Arena, München, Germany
When: 3:00pm ET / 12:00pm PT
Watch: Streaming on Paramount+
These two have met thirteen times in their history. Bayern may hold the edge with six wins over Arsenal’s four, but the last three meetings were even split one win each and a draw. One thing is certain: if this match is even a shadow of today’s OTHER potential final, Paris Saint-German’s 4-2 win over Barcelona, then soccer will be the winner, regardless of the outcome. Without Olise, Bayern’s attack is a little blunt, but I don’t think this impacts the score. Bayern will just edge out Arsenal 2-1.
The Qooligan is an alias of Hooligan Soccer founder Q Williams. Q is a 20+ year veteran of numerous technology and media companies, including MTV, Gracenote, Watchwith and Crunchyroll. He has a master’s degree in European History from Columbia University. Q is also a respected Sports Journalist with extensive experience in Soccer, particularly the Premier League, Champions League, MLS and USL. The Qooligan provides analysis and valuable insights based on years of professional practice. Connect with The Qooligan on X and Bluesky. He is committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy content that reflects expertise, experience and no shortage of attitude.
