Pernille Harder Shines as Bayern Beats Arsenal 4-2

Pernille Harder’s hat-trick led Bayern Munich to a 4-2 victory over Arsenal in a thrilling encounter, marking the Gunners’ return to the Women’s Champions League with disappointment. Harder, who had not scored in her previous five European matches, made an impact by heading in Carolin Simon’s corner to give Bayern a 3-2 lead. This came shortly after Laia Codina equalized for Arsenal with a header from Katie McCabe’s corner.

Harder solidified the win with another header in the 78th minute followed by her third goal four minutes later, capitalizing on a rebound after goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger failed to hold her initial shot. “I’m very happy with our performance, especially in the second half,” Pernille Harder told UEFA.com, expressing joy at being back on the Champions League stage after dealing with injuries.

Arsenal started strong, taking the lead in the first half when Mariona Caldentey volleyed McCabe’s cross into the net. However, Bayern responded with pressure, leveling the score with a powerful header from captain Glodis Viggosdottir. After Viggosdottir’s equalizer, Bayern continued to dominate with Sophia Lohmann scoring to put the hosts ahead.

Jonas Eidevall’s side, currently sixth in the Women’s Super League with just one win from three games faced mounting pressure after a disappointing goalless draw against Everton. Despite their early lead, Arsenal’s defensive weaknesses were exposed as Bayern surged ahead. Eidevall expressed disappointment with the team’s defensive performance, stating, “We weren’t good at defending those, and that’s why we couldn’t get a better result today.”

Arsenal will look to bounce back as they prepare to host WSL champions Chelsea on Saturday, October 14.