Bayern Munich 2-2 Arsenal: Declan Rice secures draw for Gunners in Champions League after Harry Kane penalty
Match report as Declan Rice cancels out Harry Kane's penalty to rescue a 2-2 draw for Arsenal against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena; Eberechi Eze scored the opener after replacing the injured Bukayo Saka but Alphonso Davies levelled
Wednesday 21 October 2026 22:56, UK
Declan Rice scored a superb 82nd-minute equaliser as Arsenal fought back to draw 2-2 with Bayern Munich in a thrilling Champions League encounter at the Allianz Arena.
Arsenal were heading for a first defeat in 14 league phase or group stage games before a slick passing move involving Noni Madueke and Viktor Gyokeres allowed Rice to race into the box and fire a clinical finish beyond Manuel Neuer from an acute angle.
Earlier, Eberechi Eze had scored the opener in similar style from a Martin Odegaard pass after replacing Bukayo Saka, who was forced off injured early on, but Harry Kane inspired Bayern's recovery.
The former Spurs striker, who is one of the leading contenders to win the Ballon d'Or at Monday's ceremony, set up Alphonso Davies' leveller with a superb through-ball before converting their second goal from the spot after Jurrien Timber had handled.
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Kane's goal was his 16th in 22 appearances against Arsenal and made him only the second player after Cristiano Ronaldo to score in 10 consecutive Champions League games.
Bayern were missing Michael Olise due to suspension and Joshua Kimmich due to a death in his family but still created numerous chances, with David Raya brilliantly saving the best of them when he clawed away a close-range header from Davies.
But Arsenal were a threat too, despite Saka's withdrawal. Bayern needed a superb piece of goalkeeping from Manuel Neuer to prevent a Bruno Guimaraes header from crossing the line after half-time.
Kane's penalty, after his shot had struck Timber's arm, arrived not long afterwards, but it was his England team-mate Rice who ended up having the final say on a dramatic night.
Analysis: Arsenal display defies style critics
Arsenal faced criticism of their playing style after their 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest. Their performance against Bayern Munich, at one of the toughest grounds in Europe, was a suitable riposte.
Many expected Mikel Arteta's side to sit back and try to frustrate Bayern, who hadn't lost in 39 home league phase or group stage games. Instead, they went blow for blow with them.
They allowed the hosts more chances than Mikel Arteta might have liked. But they created plenty too, showing attacking intent from the early stages of the game right until the end, when their perseverance was rewarded by Rice's superbly-worked equaliser.
Arsenal finished the game having had more shots and more possession than Bayern in their own back yard. They might have had a win to show for their efforts, too, if not for some Neuer heroics.
Arsenal 'concerned' by Saka injury
Saka's injury, seemingly to his left thigh as he attempted to play a pass, was a blot on the night for Arsenal. Arteta admitted afterwards that the club's medical staff are worried about it.
"They are a bit concerned," the Arsenal manager said to TNT Sports. "A player that has to come off with a really sharp pain is never good news, but we have to wait and see."
The Gunners are already without Christos Tzolis due to injury, meaning the only wide option other than Eze on the bench against Bayern Munich was the 16-year-old Max Dowman.
Saturday's meeting with Everton begins a busy run of five games before the November international break, including a trip to Anfield to face Liverpool in the Premier League on November 1. It remains to be seen whether Saka will be available to feature.
Arteta savours 'special' performance
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to TNT Sports: "What a game. That's one of the highest levels that we have played, the level of the opposition, what the game required, and our level as well.
"Two teams that wanted to press each other constantly. Two teams that wanted to attack and play. I think it was a fascinating game.
"I think we started the game incredibly well. We were so dominant. We did everything to deserve the first goal. We didn't score it, then we lost Bukayo, who was having a great game.
"We had to adapt to it. We gave a chance away after our corner that could have cost us a goal, then they scored a goal. And then in the second half, the game was very even. They scored the second goal and then you have to react, and we certainly did, with the spirit of the team and the quality of the goal as well.
"It's remarkable what we've done. I watched all the games they've played here in the last three years and they batter every team with many goals. So I really value and I'm really aware that what the boys have done tonight is special.
Kane: I always get penalties against Arsenal
Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane to TNT Sports: "A little bit of disappointment, but I think a draw was a fair result.
"We looked like the team that was going to go on and win it. They then put us under a bit of pressure and got the goal.
"We can't be too disappointed. We take the point and move on."
On his penalty: "I wouldn't say never in doubt! A lot of practice and hard work goes into penalties. It was nice to get on the scoresheet. I always seem to get penalties against Arsenal!"
