UCL: Bayern end Arsenal's quest for Champions League glory
Bayern Munich 1 - 0 Arsenal
(Bayern Munich won 3-2 on aggregate)
Arsenal endured a heart-wrenching departure from the Champions League as Bayern Munich clinched victory in a thrilling match at the Allianz Arena.
Joshua Kimmich's commanding header in the 63rd minute, off Raphael Guerreiro's cross, sealed the Germans' path to the semi-finals with a 3-2 aggregate win, following a 2-2 draw in London in the first leg.
Despite hosting the first leg at Emirates Stadium, Arsenal were optimistic about progressing against a Bayern Munich squad that had struggled in their domestic campaign and were missing key players Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman due to injuries.
In a tense second leg, observed by Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke, Gabriel Martinelli had the best opportunity of the first half for the Gunners but failed to beat Manuel Neuer, who made a crucial save after Jamal Musiala's earlier attempt.
UCL and UEL (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com)
Although Harry Kane had limited involvement in the first half, Neuer was called into action again to deny Martin Odegaard's shot, which took a deflection, forcing the seasoned Bayern Munich keeper to make a diving save.
With both teams aware of the high stakes, chances were scarce in the first half. However, the second half saw increased action, with Leon Goretzka hitting the post with a header, and Guerreiro's follow-up shot being cleared off the line by Raya.
Nevertheless, Kimmich's goal proved decisive, leaving Arsenal to continue their quest for their first Champions League title.
Bayern Munich will face Real Madrid in the semi-finals, following Real's victory over Manchester City in a penalty shootout.
Will Bayern win the Champions League now?https://t.co/tsTDph6YZz https://t.co/Nq8xGhnDDw
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Bayern save their season
It has been a strange season for Bayern Munich. Bayer Leverkusen secured the Bundesliga title with five games remaining. As a result, their entire season relied on their performance in the Champions League.
They had to deliver an exceptional match to satisfy their supporters. Although the game wasn't their best, Thomas Tuchel's team fought hard to reach the semi-finals for the first time since 2020.
They had already announced Tuchel's departure and have begun the search for a new coach.