Bayern Munich 2-2 Arsenal: Takeaways from first leg of quarter-final

Leroy Sane steps up at the right time

It has been a difficult second half of the season for Leroy Sane. After scoring consistently during the Hinrunde, Sane has struggled to find the back of the net in the Ruckrunde. The German forward’s performances have also dipped, which has led to question marks over his place in the starting XI.

However, Tuchel trusted Sane to make an impact against Arsenal and started him on the right flank. The 28-year-old forward repaid the faith of his coach with a sensational performance. Sane looked sharp with and without the ball from the word go. He provided the width for Die Roten instead of getting into central areas. 

Sane played a crucial role in both goals for Bayern. He intercepted a poor pass from Gabriel and found the run of Leon Goretzka with a sublime pass. Goretzka played the next pass to set up Serge Gnabry for the equalizer. The second goal was scored by Harry Kane from the spot, but Sane won the penalty for the Bavarian club with a sublime run from the halfway line. He breezed past Arsenal players to win the penalty. 

The German winger also worked hard defensively when Arsenal were dominating the possession. It was not surprising to see Bayern struggle to stitch good attacking moves when Sane came off at the hour mark. It was an encouraging display from Sane. Tuchel and the Bavarian faithful will hope for the same in the second leg at Allianz Arena.