London, Feb 19: It is difficult to pick a favourite team in this tie but Bayern Munich are clearly the stronger side while Arsenal, despite their recent form, can be a threat to any major European side.

Bayern deserved to reach the finals last season but sadly lost on penalties to Chelsea. This time out the Bavarians are a dominant force both in the Bundesliga and the Champions League.

Arsenal are still considered one of the best sides in Europe but manager Arsene Wenger and the fans know this is their only chance for a silverware. Arsenal's league season has been poor compared to their standards but they have also been eliminated from the League Cup and the FA Cup.

Both teams are going to shuffle their squad and make necessary adjustments due to injuries and suspensions.

Arsenal will push Thomas Vermaelen to the left-hand side due to the absence of Keiran Gibbs at left-back and with Nacho Monreal cup-tied, while Wenger will hope Laurent Koscielny recovers in time to fill the gap in central defence. Bacary Sagna put in a sensational performance in central defence against Sunderland.

Bayern too have to necessary changes at the back as Jerome Boateng is suspended for two games, while Holger Badstuber could miss the rest of season with a knee injury. Either Daniel van Buyten, Javi Martinez or Luiz Gustavo will have to start alongside Dante in central defence.

Arsenal have won three of last five matches in all competition while Bayern have not lost since last lost a game in October. This record clearly indicates who is the stronger side in this tie.

Even though Arsenal have lesser chances to win against Bayern, they will certainly put up a fight heading into the return leg. Arsenal are expected to score at home but the mighty Germans will look to score a crucial away goal.

OneIndia News