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Bayern Munich vs ArsenalApril 17, 2024, 3:00 PM EDT
Bayern Munich odds+139
Arsenal odds+185
Draw+270
Over\Under3 +100/-120

Bayern Munich vs Arsenal. Shape of the Teams

A week ago, everything seemed perfect for Arsenal, with first place laid on a plate for the Gunners. Liverpool had temporarily gifted them the top spot after a disappointing 2-2 draw at Old Trafford. Additionally, Bayern’s season-long poor form seemed to set the stage for Mikel Arteta and his team to confidently advance to the semi-finals of the Champions League. 

Except that what was ‘supposed to happen’ didn’t happen. While Liverpool dropped points in a 0-1 loss against Crystal Palace, and Manchester City secured a 5-1 victory against Luton, Arsenal unexpectedly stumbled against Aston Villa. What started as a promising match ended in a 2-0 defeat against Unai Emery’s disciplined mid-block, planting seeds of doubt.

The first leg of their Champions League tie with Bayern ended in a 2-2 draw at the Emirates. With this being the first season in the UCL for most players, the young Gunners find themselves in a do-or-die scenario in the Allianz Arena. The 2-2 draw revealed Arsenal’s vulnerabilities against robust defenses. Furthermore, Bayern has a psychological edge on their home turf.

While Arsenal’s form initially suggested an advantage (following Bayern’s consecutive defeats to Dortmund and Heidenheim), the tables have turned. Arsenal’s recent loss to Aston Villa contrasts starkly with Bayern’s solid 2-0 victory over Köln.

However, not all is well in the Bavarian capital. There has been speculation about the future of stars like Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman. Despite their undeniable contributions to the club over the years, critics claim their development hasn’t met the lofty standards expected at Bayern.

Bayern Munich vs Arsenal Match Info

Bayern Munich vs Arsenal Prediction, Odds

While the betting odds favour Bayern, the game against Arsenal promises to be a nail-biter. Both teams have displayed significant weaknesses, which only adds to the suspense of the match.

Arsenal’s recent matches against Munich and Aston Villa have shown that the Gunners still struggle to dismantle robust defensive setups. Additionally, the Allianz Arena – known for its electrifying atmosphere –  will be a test for many Arsenal players who are navigating deep Champions League waters for the first time.

A big chunk of Arsenal’s success relies on its out-of-possession shape, with pressing that forces the opponent to make erroneous decisions. However, pressing a seasoned player like Manuel Neuer could backfire due to his technical ability to find players beyond Arsenal’s pressure line. This poses the question: What type of pressing intensity will Arteta use? 

Fatigue and energy levels could be a game-changer. Furthermore, Arsenal will have to deal with Bayern’s skilled dribblers, especially Jamal Musiala – arguably one of the best of his generation. 

Arteta’s team will be dealing with an opponent that prefers a more frenetic, end-to-end style. In situations where Arsenal would enjoy control, Bayern Munich would prefer to run up and down. This contrast will dictate the game’s tempo and potentially sway both teams’ comfort levels throughout the match.

Despite the challenges, Arsenal is far from doomed. Bayern’s midfield has a beyond-hideous technical level, potentially allowing Arsenal to disrupt central play through effective pressing. The expected double-pivot with Laimer next to Leon Goretzka could be particularly vulnerable.

Ødegaard is unavailable for the clash with Bayern, which means a shift to the midfield for Kai Havertz is on the table. In this case, Havertz could be a target for Bayern when applying their pressing.

Meanwhile, the likely inclusion of Eric Dier in the starting lineup could offer Arsenal’s dynamic front three – Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli – a target to exploit with their pace and agility.

Bayern Munich vs Arsenal Betting Tip

Bayern Munich has faced significant criticism this season for what many perceive as a lack of inspiration and unwillingness to fight for their soon-to-depart coach, Thomas Tuchel.

Yet, the atmosphere at the Allianz Arena and the recent uptick in Bayern’s form suggests a renewed vigour, especially now that the Bundesliga is out of reach with Leverkusen clinching the title. The 2-2 draw in London confirmed that Bayern stands a chance and that the players are up for the fight.

One of the key players could be Jamal Musiala. Unlike Coman or Gnabry, who are often criticized by the media, Musiala is untouchable. He is the type of player who inspires his team by just playing his game. The German talent is undoubtedly one of the toughest players to defend against. All these factors provide a platform for the belief that Bayern can fight back—and will. 

While most will favour Arsenal due to their Premier League status, Bayern’s performance in the first leg has been underappreciated. At their home ground and supported by their fans, Bayern is expected to intensify their game, and Musiala could potentially be the life of the party.


Disclaimer: Odds are accurate at the time of posting and subject to change. Please verify the latest odds on our platform before betting.


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