Bayern and Arsenal draw despite key absences and goals from Kane and Rice

In matchday J‑3 of the Champions League Group Stage, Bayern Munich and Arsenal drew 2‑2 at the Allianz Arena, with goals from Harry Kane and Declan Rice, despite significant absences in both teams.

The ‘gunners’ have seven points and sit inside the Top‑8 after three matchdays, while Bayern have four, which forces them to travel to Atlético on November 3 under pressure. Both squads were looking to consolidate their position in the Champions League table. The draw left Bayern needing to pick up points to stay in the race for qualification.

Absences that marked the duel

Bayern arrived without Musiala, without Olise, suspended after the red card against Viking, and without Kimmich, absent due to a family member’s death. Luis Díaz came on in the second half but left the field before the end, while Manuel Neuer returned to goal after two matches on the sidelines.

Arsenal played without Saliba, Tzolis and Hincapié, and lost Saka in the eighth minute due to muscle issues. Despite those absences, the English side kept a competitive lineup with Jurriën Timber and Gabriel Magalhães in defence. English goalkeeper David Raya stood firm, denying several attempts from Bayern.

First half and refereeing decisions

Arsenal dominated possession in the first half, controlling the tempo of the game while Bayern looked for counter‑attacks. David Raya deflected Serge Gnabry’s shot and, after a long pass from Martin Ødegaard, Eberechi Eze, Saka’s substitute, scored the 0‑1 by crossing in front of Neuer (25'). The goal was initially ruled out for offside, but VAR confirmed it.

Davies equalised for Bayern with a deep pass from Harry Kane, leaving Alphonso Davies one‑on‑one, who struck with precision (35'). Davies’ goal restored the lead to Bayern and reignited the tension on the scoreboard. The play highlighted Kane’s assist capability, which compensated for Kimmich’s absence.

Penalty and final draw

In the second half, Jurriën Timber blocked Kane’s shot with his arm, prompting referee Davide Massa to award a penalty. Kane converted the spot‑kick (61'), drawing close to matching Cristiano Ronaldo’s record with Real Madrid. Later, Mikel Arteta brought on Viktor Gyökeres, who assisted Declan Rice for the 2‑2 (82').

Italian referee Davide Massa also showed yellow cards to Kai Havertz (13') and Konsa (39'). The match was attended by 75,000 spectators at the Allianz Arena. Martin Meissner and Jordi Archs, from International Football, noted that, despite the notable absences, the duel lived up to expectations between European football giants. In another matchday, Inter recorded their first win with ten players, according to Sergio Escario.