Pernille Harder hat-trick fires Bayern Munich past Arsenal in Champions League opener

A brace from Pernille Harder was the difference maker as Bayern Munich began their UEFA Women's Champions League campaign with a 5-2 win over Arsenal.

Bayern Munich maintained their perfect start to the season as they handed Arsenal a 5-2 defeat in their opening game of the 2024/25 UEFA Women's Champions League. The Bavarians came from behind to claim the three vital points in a topsy-turvy clash.

Pernille Harder scored a 13-minute hat-trick for Bayern Munich Frauen, making the difference in a closely contested game. Glodis Perla Viggosdottir and Sydney Lohmann were also on target for the reigning Frauen-Bundesliga champions.

Pernille Harder scores hat-trick as Bayern Munich beat Arsenal 5-2

Bayern Munich's attacking prowess helped them get over the line in the end, but it was Arsenal who struck the first blow with Mariona Caldentey opening the scoring at the half hour mark.

Glodis Perla Viggosdottir issued Bayern's response and sent a looping header into the back of the net to level the scores on the stroke of half-time.

Sydney Lohmann completed the comeback for Bayern after an excellent run and pass from Klara Bühl. Arsenal responded soon after, with Laia Codina heading home to make it 2-2.

But Bayern weren't to be denied, and Pernille Harder came up with three goals in a 13-minute period to make sure of the win. The Danish forward headed home from a corner to make it 3-2, before getting on the end of another well placed cross for Bayern's fourth goal in the 77th minute. She then turned home Giulia Gwinn's cross from close range to complete her hat-trick and secure a memorable win for her side.

The win comes as a huge boost for Bayern Munich as they look to compete for the UEFA Women's Champions League title this season. Next up for Bayern in the Champions League is a trip to Italian side Juventus in what will be another tough test.