Kimmich header fires Bayern Munich past Arsenal and into Champions League semi-finals

A strong second-half showing from Bayern Munich proved the difference, with Joshua Kimmich’s header enough to lead the German side past Arsenal 1-0 (3-2 on aggregate) and into the Champions League semi-finals.

The tie hung in the balance after a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Emirates last week. The return leg failed to create the same kind of fireworks though, with the English giants never really looking like scoring on what was a disappointing night for Mikel Arteta’s men

Both teams looked sharp out the gate. First, Harry Kane spun at the edge of the box before firing an effort just wide of the mark. Arsenal responded soon after though, with Gabriel Martinelli bending a shot that only just headed wide from distance.

From there the two teams enjoyed spells of possession, though neither could fashion much in terms of clear chances. Arsenal came closest when Martin Odegaard’s drilled pass found Martinelli, though he sent his shot straight at a waiting Manuel Neuer.

The nervy feel to the match only grew when Bayern tried to take a throw in while the whole Arsenal team were getting instructions from Arteta during a stoppage in play, with neither side particularly happy with the other.

There was little else to report on in the rest of the half, with the tie still in the balance after 45 minutes as the two teams took few risks.

Bayern stamp their authority in the second half

Bayern wasted no time in turning up the temperature after the restart. In what was their first venture forward, Leon Goretzka’s header came back off the bar while Raphael Guerreiro’s rebound was scrambled away by David Raya, with a little help from the post.

The German side came close again, this time on a counter. Jamal Musiala started things and picked out Guerreiro, and while his pass for Kane was a little too strong, Gabriel almost managed to poke it into his own net.

With Bayern firmly in control, a goal seemed inevitable and it finally came in the 63rd minute. Guerreiro’s cross met the head of a sprinting Kimmich, who deposited past a helpless Raya as the Arsenal defence stood still.

Despite being a goal down, Arsenal struggled to mount a response as the home side controlled proceedings. Gabriel Jesus managed to fire miles wide from close range after being played in by Declan Rice, though the offside flag eventually went up.

It was the only real moment of tension for Bayern in the second half, as the German side booked their spot in the Champions League semi-finals, joining Paris Saint-Germain and fellow Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund.