PlayBeautiful

Champions League: Arsenal vs. Bayern München

Those who watched would agree it was an extravagant affair between the Bavarian giants and the Gunners. The match, which ended 1-3 at the Emirates, made room for some major talking points.

The German Invasion
Bayern were set to be the favorites in this tie because of their sheer hunger for consistent goal-scoring. They have scored in each of their last 13 Champions League games with 10 different players scoring in 2012-13 [Opta]. It was no surprise when Kroos took the game by the reigns and scored the opener for his side in the 7th minute. Ribery started the play to Müller who perfectly set up Kroos in front of goal. The energy had intensified from that moment on in the first half. Müller made a statement of his own with a goal to put Bayern up 2-nil. Their third goal of the night came from none other than Mario Mandžukić. One of the top scorers in the Bundesliga marked his first Champions League goal. The goal was the product of the best play of the match.What we saw was not only a confident attacking side, but an organized back-line. A team that didn't look like they were the visiting side. They were comfortable in midfield and controlled the ball with ease. With Bayern supporters making the most noise in the stands, the odds looked to be in their favor. The real question is does Pep Guardiola need to manage a side that's already considered to be complete in modern football? Most importantly, can he afford to implement his changes and "transform" a strong team? Like they say, don't try to fix what isn't broken.

Gunners Gunned Down
Neuer was one who was tested in the 3rd minute by Cazorla, but the opportunities for Arsenal fell through the cracks. Arsenal's defense was dismantled after the opening shot and looked its weakest in the first half. The frustration was visible with three players getting booked within 9 minutes. It was rather hard to watch a side with so much potential only manage 2 shots with 0 on target. Arsenal fans voiced their disappointment of a team lacking motivation and more noticeably, heart. The physical aspect is key, but the mental state of mind differentiates between a good performance and a great one. All that changed for the better though. It was an unexpected burst of energy delivered in the second half. There were clear signs Arsenal's passing improved. Podolski made the lone goal for Arsenal after taking advantage of Neuer's defensive-lapse. The ball fell to Podolski from Wilshire's corner kick and it was a simple header to smash in. Walcott happened to be the one leading Arsenal's front-line. He showed good pace and dribbling, but was undoubtedly outmatched against Bayern's disciplined defense. Some may argue Giroud would have been more effective up top. There weren't many chances to capitalize on, so I don't know how Giroud's presence could have changed the game. The ball was in Arsenal's court, but their misgivings got the better of them.

Men of the Match
Philipp Lahm and Jack Wilshere were the standout stars for their respective clubs. Lahm's work ethic was admiring. He was involved in play up until the final whistle. He is a role-model fullback who tirelessly contributes to defense and strengthens the links in attack. Arsenal supporters and non-supporters alike hailed the performance of Wilshere in midfield. He's a player who already harnesses so much skill and maturity at only 21 years of age. He will only get better.

The second leg at the Allianz Arena will kick-off on March 13. Bayern are one step closer to reaching the quarter finals. That much closer to the Champions League trophy.

Written by: Goral Patel

Follow me on Twitter: @goralpatel 

Image via Getty

Image via Getty

Image via Getty