Arsenal delivered a stunning statement of intent on a memorable night at the Emirates, overpowering German giants Bayern Munich 3-1 in a gripping Champions League encounter. The victory, secured on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, was hailed as a complete team performance, with former Gunner Martin Keown singling out midfielder Declan Rice for producing what he described as the most complete display of his career.
A Night of Highs and Lows at the Emirates
The match exploded into life in the 22nd minute when Jurrien Timber rose magnificently to head home a Bukayo Saka corner, giving the hosts the lead against the run of play. The joy was short-lived, however, as Bayern's 17-year-old sensation, Lennart Karl, etched his name into the history books. Just ten minutes later, he finished off an exquisite 24-pass move to equalise, becoming the youngest player ever to score in his first two Champions League appearances.
Arsenal showed immense character to regain control after the interval. The introduction of substitutes Riccardo Calafiori and Noni Madueke proved a masterstroke from Mikel Arteta. Madueke directed a pinpoint Calafiori cross into the net to restore Arsenal's lead, before Gabriel Martinelli capitalised on questionable goalkeeping from Manuel Neuer to seal the victory in the 77th minute.
Keown's Verdict on a 'Complete' Rice
Speaking on TNT Sports after the final whistle, Arsenal legend Martin Keown was effusive in his praise for the home side, reserving special acclaim for match-winner Declan Rice. "I was out of my seat in that second half," Keown exclaimed. "Declan Rice makes a tackle near the dugout and then suddenly Calafiori down that left-hand side, what a ball into the box."
He went on to describe Rice's performance in glowing terms, suggesting the England international was given the freedom of the city. "He was galloping around that pitch. It was as if they gave him the keys to the city," Keown said. "It was the most complete performance that I've seen this young man play." Keown also highlighted the crucial role of Martin Zubimendi, whose deep-lying midfield work allowed Rice the licence to roam forward and influence the game.
Consequences and Looking Ahead
The result has significant implications for Group Stage, with Mikel Arteta's men now opening up a three-point lead at the summit after five matches. The north Londoners will aim to complete a perfect group phase when they travel to face Club Brugge on December 10.
The only dampener on an otherwise perfect evening was a potential injury to Leandro Trossard, which will be assessed ahead of the weekend's Premier League clash with Chelsea. Keown believes the performance sends a clear message to their rivals: "Spurs at the weekend and Bayern Munich got worked tonight and they realised really what a contender Arsenal are in the Champions League this season."
Arsenal's formidable home record in the competition remains intact, having still not conceded a goal at the Emirates in the group phase since their return under Arteta.
