Arsenal started off strong against Bayern Munich at home, controlling the early pressure and forcing their agenda. They seemed to be getting the better of the best defense in Europe, all they needed to do was take advantage of the early pressure.
A chance presented itself in the form of a penalty, won by ‘big match player’ Mesut Ozil. The German was brought down by his countryman, Jerome Boateng, a clear penalty. Ozil stepped up to take the resulting penalty against his close friend and schoolmate, Manuel Neuer. However, as you can see below, the £42 million man who has been labelled a ‘flop’ in the British press recently, failed to deliver. A lazi/cocky/poor penalty easily saved by Neuer, who had a lot to do himself but stood up to his task.
Had that penalty gone in, it could have been a whole different story for Arsenal. A lead in the opening few minutes to combine with the pressure they had could have set the tone for the rest of the game. They would have been in the lead and in control. However, as we now know, failed opportunities for Arsenal prove to be decisive, red card later in the half made it even worse; and an early second half goal added insult to injury.
Arsene Wenger and Arsenal fans will no doubt look to this moment when they reflect on the game, and ultimately on their season; a case of what could have been.
GIF made by reddit user, miner_andy
