Four observations from Bayern Munich’s cathartic 1-0 win against Arsenal

No one expected that, but everyone hoped for it. Bayern Munich deservedly overcame Arsenal and are in the semi-finals of the Champions League after four years. Without much further ado, these are the observations from the most important win of this season till now.

Tactical nerves

After almost losing the first leg in London when trying to play their full-pressing aggressive style under Arteta, Arsenal did their homework and learned from that experience. What came to be was a cagey and tactically frustrating football game. Arsenal left their need to play entertaining football at home and came ready to get dirty and into the mud of Tuchelball. Both teams spent the first half waiting to pounce on any defensive mistakes by the opposition or a lost ball that could lead to a counterattack. A first-time football spectator could have almost thought that neither team wanted the ball and was very happy for the opponent to have it. A seasoned fan would be exhausted knowing that every possible tactical mistake could close the game for good. In the end both teams showed nerves of steel and kept the game open for what was to follow.

The weight of the heart

After the stalemate of the first half, the second could not have started any differently. Leon Goretzka’s header hit the post, and the well-taken deflected shot from Raphaël Guerreiro did the same. A show of intention, you may call it, Bayern were ready to play. This was not Bayern’s best eleven; far from it. But what they lacked in perceived quality, they made up in heart.

Flying in every duel, going for every second ball, and clearing every loose one, it was definitely a beautiful show to see, as every 50/50 challenge won brought Bayern closer to its goal, culminating in a thumping header from the most unexpected source, Joshua Kimmich. It was a cathartic moment for every Bayern fan around the world.

Team players come in clutch

Everyone knew this Bayern team had a quality bench; they just failed to show it for most of the season. Well, in the most important match of the season until now, show it they did. Each and every one of the non-starters for the season played the best game of their Bayern careers.

Noussair Mazraoui turned into a starting-caliber left back, Guerreiro was one of the most complete players on the pitch and assisted the winner, and Laimer ran and ran, covering enough ground for two men.

When the line-ups came up, everyone had their doubts; after the final whistle, there were no questions left.

Credits where they’re due

After lowering the expectations of every fan to the absolute lowest and making them watch some of the worst football in years, Thomas Tuchel really made it happen.

Be it numerous injuries, a crucial suspension, being out of form, just recovering players, or the abysmal Bundesliga form of late, there were more than enough reasons to write Bayern off. But into the semifinals of the Champions League they are. The line-up proved to be perfect, and the tactics were enough to keep one of the best teams in the Premier League at bay while having a fair share of dominant play.

While definitely not a good fit for Bayern Munich — or maybe just a casualty of the club’s turbulent front office transition — Thomas Tuchel is still an elite coach worthy of his reputation. Kudos Thomas!

Looking for more thoughts and analysis on Bayern Munich’s massive 1-0 win over Arsenal FC to advance to the semifinals of the Champions League? Well, Marcus and Chuck have you covered with the Bavarian Podcast Works — Postgame Show! Check it out on Spotify or below: