Thanks to Lea Schüller, Bayern Munich’s footballers opened the gate to the semi-finals of the Champions League.
With a bit of luck, coach Alexander Straus’ team defeated Arsenal 1-0 (1-0) in front of 20,000 spectators in the Allianz Arena and has a good chance of progressing in the second leg of the quarter-finals in England next Wednesday.
“I’m really happy. Going 1-0 into the second leg is good. It’s always nice to play in front of such a crowd. That’s why I’m very satisfied,” said Schüller at “DAZN”.
National player Schüller (39th) decided the close and hard-fought encounter on Tuesday evening with her headed goal. The striker initiated the attack herself. The English runners-up only increased significantly after the change of sides, but despite the best chances they could not equalize – also because Schüller saved twice in dire need.
Before the eyes of national coach Martina Voss-Tecklenburg, both teams had initially largely neutralized themselves with their tactics and formations. Bayern became increasingly courageous and rewarded themselves with Schüller. Shortly before the break, another shot by the offensive player flew just wide of the goal (45th).
However, Arsenal came out of the cabin much braver. Bayern barely made it out of their own half and were lucky: Australia’s Caitlin Foord (52′) hit the right post with her flick. Schüller and Saki Kumagai saved a little later in a London double chance (66th) on the line, shortly afterwards Schüller was the last woman on the spot (70th). The 25-year-old had to be substituted a little later.
VfL Wolfsburg, the second German team, is fighting for a good starting position in the fight for the semi-finals at Paris St. Germain on Wednesday (9:00 p.m. / DAZN). The first leg in the Prinzenpark is also the dress rehearsal for the hit in the Bundesliga: On Saturday (5:55 p.m. / ARD) leaders Wolfsburg will face FC Bayern for the summit.