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A clash of giants unfolded on Carlo Ancelotti’s home turf at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday evening, culminating in a draw. Arsenal were unfortunate to hold the Bavarians to a draw.
A breathtaking spectacle ensued as the Skyblues took an early lead, with Bernardo Silva outmaneuvering Andriy Lunin with a clever free-kick just two minutes after kick-off (0-1, 2′). However, the euphoria was short-lived as Madrid turned the tide in the span of two minutes, benefiting from a stroke of luck. First, Eduardo Camavinga’s shot was deflected into his own net by Ruben Dias (1-1, 12′), then Rodrygo’s foot shot into the box was deflected by Manuel Akanji before gently sliding into Ortega’s net (2-1, 14′). The scenario shifted dramatically shortly after the hour mark when Phil Foden (2-2, 66′) and Josko Gvardiol (2-3, 71′) both brilliantly fired from the edge of the area to equalize and give Manchester City the lead. Finally, Federico Valverde frustrated the English side by denying them victory with a volley that was as pure as it was sumptuous (3-3, 79′).
Gunners Struggling for Breath
Struggling at halftime against Bayern Munich, the Gunners managed to secure a draw on Tuesday against a Bavarian side more than capable of holding their own (2-2). The Premier League leaders opened the scoring through Bukayo Saka (12th, 1-0) but were soon pegged back by Serge Gnabry (18th, 1-1) and then outclassed by Harry Kane from the penalty spot (32nd, 1-2), following a foul on Leroy Sané by Frenchman William Saliba. Arsenal then displayed their determination to equalize when Leandro Trossard came on (76th, 2-2), well served by Jesus, also a substitute.
Did Arsenal Miss a Penalty?
Mikel Arteta, with his tactical choices yielding results, might have hoped to win a penalty for his team at the very end of added time. However, Glenn Nyberg, the Swedish referee, ruled that Manuel Neuer had not fouled Bukayo Saka. Bayern Munich, deprived of Frenchmen Dayot Upamecano and Kingsley Coman at kick-off, defended vigorously throughout the match and capitalized on their counter-attacks. The suspense remains intact with a week to go before the return leg in Germany.
Everything to Play for
All is still to play for ahead of the return leg on Wednesday, April 17, which will determine who advances to the last four, and a two-legged tie with the winner of Arsenal-Bayern Munich, two teams who will also be eager to settle the tie on the same evening.
