Arsenal showcased their strength in a Champions League match, defeating Bayern Munich 3-1. The game saw Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli score as substitutes, helping Arsenal maintain their perfect record in the group stage. Jurrien Timber initially put Arsenal ahead with a header, but Lennart Karl equalised for Bayern before halftime.
The Gunners have been exceptional with set-pieces this season, scoring 10 goals from corners across all competitions. This achievement is unmatched in Europe's top five leagues. Arsenal allowed Bayern to control possession early on but capitalised on their set-piece strength when Timber scored from Bukayo Saka's corner.
Eberechi Eze narrowly missed a chance before Bayern equalised through Karl. Joshua Kimmich's
precise cross-field pass set up Karl, who struck past David Raya. Saka then tested Manuel Neuer with a powerful shot that was tipped over, and Mikel Merino's header was saved by the Bayern keeper.
Madueke ended his goal drought by scoring after Riccardo Calafiori's assist. Martinelli sealed the win by rounding Neuer and scoring into an empty net, marking Bayern's first loss of the season in all competitions. "GABI!! Martinelli rounds Neuer with aplomb and calmly slots home into an empty net 3-1 (77)," tweeted Arsenal.
GABI!! Martinelli rounds Neuer with aplomb and calmly slots home into an empty net 3-1 (77) pic.twitter.com/RdUOjwbqFO
- Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 26, 2025
Karl had another opportunity but failed to beat Raya one-on-one. Merino also missed a chance from Declan Rice's corner. Despite being on the losing side, Karl continues to impress as the second-youngest player to score in consecutive Champions League games at 17 years and 277 days.
Neuer's Challenging Night
Manuel Neuer, at 39 years old, has made several errors leading to goals in the Champions League, four of which were against Arsenal. His decision to rush out allowed Martinelli to score easily. Meanwhile, Madueke celebrated his first goal for Arsenal after going 17 games without scoring.
Martinelli has been prolific in this Champions League campaign, scoring in each of his four appearances—his best performance in a single edition of the tournament so far.
