FC Bayern under Champions League pressure after two draws

After the 2‑2 draw against last year’s finalist Arsenal, Bayern Munich are under growing pressure in the Champions League because they have already had to settle for a second consecutive draw; the upcoming clash against Atlético Madrid in Munich could decide the fate of the Bavarians, reports Julian Buhl.

Ambivalent Mood and Missing Stars

In the arena, Bayern Munich’s stars showed no cheers after Wednesday evening, but left the pitch with thoughtful looks. The fans noted the unusual farewell scenario, which stood in contrast to the usual celebrations after a victory.

The squad also had to do without key players: Michael Olise was suspended, Jamal Musiala was injured, vice‑captain Joshua Kimmich was absent due to a bereavement in the family, and Luis Díaz was not available for the starting eleven. Coach Vincent Kompany, who had been suffering from a stubborn viral infection in the days prior, finally returned to the sidelines.

Match Progress and Critical Moments

The match turned around after an early 0‑1 deficit thanks to Alphonso Davies, who scored in the 35th minute, and a penalty by Harry Kane in the 61st minute to give a 2‑1 lead. However, eight minutes before the end Declan Rice equalised for Arsenal, so the clash finished 2‑2.

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Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer analysed after the game that they had already been up against a top side. Captain Neuer added that it was frustrating to be leading at home after having lost the last game in London. Serge Gnabry recalled that after the 2‑1 scoreline the Bayern believed they had won the match, before the late goal levelled the score.

Table Pressure and Upcoming Clash

With five points, Bayern Munich now sit in 14th place in the XXL table of the Champions League, while defending champions Paris Saint‑Germain, Real Madrid and Liverpool each have nine points. Only the top eight teams qualify directly for the round of 16, the other 16 must go through the playoffs.

In the previous season Arsenal had beaten Bayern in London 3‑1 – that was the Munich side’s only loss in the league phase. Two years ago the Bayern nearly slipped past Celtic Glasgow in the knockout games and had to secure progression only in injury time, which caused additional scheduling pressure as the matches clashed with the decisive phases of the national competitions.

The upcoming first leg against Atlético Madrid in Munich is now described as a decisive duel that gives Bayern the chance to ease the pressure and climb back into the qualification round. A positive result could free the team from recent setbacks and pave the way to the playoffs.