PER MERTESACKER insists it took a sublime collective display from Arsenal to stop Robert Lewandowski.
The Poland star had gone into the game last night having scored 15 goals in his last seven games.
But Mertesacker and co. hardly gave him a sniff at the Emirates.
Arsenal managed a stunning 2-0 win thanks to second half goals from substitute Olivier Giroud and Mesut Ozil.
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| Robert Lewandowski failed to add to his stunning strike rate |
Arsenal keeper Petr Cech, though, was called on for a string of saves to keep the visitors out with Thiago Alcantara and Arturo Vidal testing him.
Lewandowski, however, was forced to go looking for the ball and for all Bayern's possession, was unable to make his mark.
"I think that was a team effort," Mertesacker said.
"It was difficult for him. He always tried to come a bit deeper to get the ball and get into the holes.
"It was difficult today for him. I think he had a great chance in the second half but we have a great goalkeeper for him.
"It was not easy for him but I think he will score some goals in this season and he’s in good form at the moment. I’m sure he will continue his run."
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| Lewandowski ran out of luck at the Emirates |
Arsenal had to withstand enormous pressure, particularly in the first half, and were without the ball for most of the game.
Bayern recorded 70% possession and made 600 passes to Arsenal's 175.
But the captain admits they were focussed on breaking down Bayern's play and were able to spring forward in counters.
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| Laurent Koscielny stopped Lewandowski in his tracks |
"Yeah, it was better," Mertesacker said of Arsenal's defensive game-plan.
"They can create a lot of chances when you press too high.
"They can come out of dangerous situations so we tried it the other way, stayed more compact in our own half and it worked out completely.
"We got them on the break we had good counter-attacks, great chances and kept a clean sheet over 90 minutes, which is a good sign against this Munich side."
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