Bayern Munich defeated Arsenal 1-0, with Joshua Kimmich’s header securing their spot in the Champions League semi-finals with a 3-2 aggregate score.

Joshua Kimmich’s heroics propelled Bayern Munich into the UEFA Champions League semi-finals with a well-deserved 3-2 aggregate victory over Arsenal. Thomas Tuchel’s side emerged as worthy 1-0 winners on the night, following a 2-2 draw in the first leg at the Emirates last week.

Bayern dominated the game, with Leon Goretzka hitting the bar and Raphael Guerreiro striking the post early in the second half. However, it was Kimmich who sealed the victory for Bayern on the 63rd minute, as he threw himself at Guerreiro’s cross to secure their spot in the last four.

Arsenal failed to pose a significant threat and must now shift their focus to the Premier League, where they aim to end their 20-year wait for the English football’s biggest prize. Meanwhile, Bayern, who have watched Bayer Leverkusen claim the Bundesliga title, remain strong contenders for a seventh European Cup triumph as they prepare for a semi-final clash against either Manchester City or Real Madrid.

Despite the disappointment of not reaching the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2009, Arsenal cannot dwell on what might have been in Munich. Their priority this season has always been the Premier League, and they must quickly move on from this defeat as they face Wolves on Saturday, trailing league leaders Manchester City by just two points.

Returning to the Champions League as English champions next season is still well within Arsenal’s reach.

Joshua Kimmich was the standout performer of the match, showcasing his defensive and attacking prowess. His marvellous diving header in the second half secured Bayern’s spot in the last four for the first time since 2020.

Player Ratings:
Bayern Munich:
– Neuer 7
– Kimmich 8
– De Ligt 7
– Dier 8
– Mazraoui 7
– Laimer 7
– Goretzka 7
– Sane 8
– Musiala 7
– Guerreiro 8
– Kane 7
Subs: Upamecano 6, Minjae 6

Arsenal:
– Raya 6
– White 6
– Saliba 7
– Gabriel 7
– Tomiyasu 6
– Jorginho 6
– Rice 6
– Odegaard 6
– Saka 6
– Havertz 6
– Martinelli 6
Subs: Trossard 6, Nketiah 6, Jesus 6

Match Highlights:
– 4′ – Bayern threaten first as Sane beats Gabriel and Kimmich finds Kane with a delicate cross, but Kane’s volley narrowly misses the target. An early warning for Arsenal.
– 32′ – Martinelli squanders a golden opportunity, failing to convert Odegaard’s pass and shooting straight at Neuer from 12 yards out. A frustrating miss for Arsenal.
– 48′ – Bayern come agonizingly close to opening the scoring as Goretzka’s header hits the bar from Kimmich’s cross, and Guerreiro’s follow-up strikes Saliba and then the post before going wide. Arsenal survive by the skin of their teeth.
– 63′ – GOAL! Kimmich scores a powerful diving header from close range after Raya parries Sane’s cross. Guerreiro provides an excellent assist. A brilliant finish gives Bayern a 1-0 lead on the night and a 3-2 aggregate advantage.
– 80′ – Saliba makes a vital interception as Guerreiro tries to find Kane on the run. Arsenal press for an equalizer.