Arjen Robben has sent a clear message of confidence ahead of Bayern Munich’s Champions League semifinal second leg against Paris Saint-Germain: "Bayern will advance, 100%."
The former Dutch winger, a club legend who scored the winning goal in the 2013 Champions League final, made the bold prediction during a visit to Säbener Straße last weekend. He was also in attendance at the Allianz Arena for the dramatic 3-3 draw with Heidenheim—a match where head coach Vincent Kompany rotated his squad with one eye firmly on Wednesday night’s showdown.
Bayern face a daunting task. After a 5-2 deficit in Paris, goals from Dayot Upamecano and Luis Díaz kept hope alive, leaving the aggregate score at 5-4. To advance to the final in Budapest, Bayern need a win by at least two goals—or a one-goal victory to force extra time. It’s a tall order, especially against a PSG side featuring the firepower of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Désiré Doué, and Ousmane Dembélé.
Defensive solidity will be key. Bayern have conceded 11 goals in their last three matches—uncharacteristic for a club of their stature. But recent comebacks against Mainz in the Bundesliga and Real Madrid in the Champions League show this team has the resilience to fight back.
Robben knows all about going the distance in Europe’s top competition. He was part of the famous 2012/13 treble-winning side and scored the winner at Wembley against Borussia Dortmund. That season, Bayern overturned a first-leg deficit against Arsenal in the round of 16, advancing on away goals after a 3-1 win in London. And in the 2012 semifinals, it was Robben’s penalty in a 3-3 draw at Real Madrid that sent the tie to extra time and penalties—which Bayern won.
For fans heading to the Allianz Arena, Wednesday night promises to be another chapter in Bayern’s storied European history. Whether you’re watching from the stands or gearing up at home, make sure you’re dressed for the occasion in your Bayern Munich gear.
