Bayern Fans Gather Safely Ahead of Arsenal Clash

Hundreds of Bayern Munich fans were observed marching around Highbury Fields, under the supervision of the Metropolitan Police. They were seen chanting and displaying lit flares prior to the match, although there were no reports of violence involving home supporters. In preparation for the event, the Metropolitan Police had implemented a “robust policing plan” to ensure the safety and security of all attendees. This standard protocol for major events entails close collaboration with club security and maintaining a visible police presence to effectively manage crowds and mitigate potential incidents. Authorities also advised fans, both local and Bayern supporters who traveled without tickets, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security personnel.

As the kick-off approached, there were some disturbances reported in the away section.

Bayern Munich faced a ban preventing their fans from attending the away leg of last season’s Champions League quarter-final against Arsenal in April. This sanction was imposed by UEFA after supporters launched fireworks and other objects onto the pitch during an away match against Lazio in February 2024. Previously, Bayern had been under a two-year probation with a suspended one-match away ban due to a similar incident involving pyrotechnics during their group stage match in Copenhagen in October 2023. The repeat offense at Lazio resulted in the enforcement of the ban. The club accepted the penalty and chose not to appeal, with CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen acknowledging that the intentional throwing of pyrotechnics posed a direct risk to bystanders and constituted a breach of their probationary conditions.

The highly anticipated Champions League clash between Arsenal and Bayern Munich commenced, with both teams boasting perfect records in the competition thus far. A high-scoring draw was widely anticipated due to the attacking prowess displayed by key players, including Bayern’s Harry Kane and Arsenal’s in-form Eberechi Eze.