A pivotal evening awaits at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal prepares to welcome Bayern Munich for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash Today. This encounter is highly anticipated, marking a significant moment for both clubs, particularly for Bayern Munich, the 2020 European champions, who find themselves at a critical juncture.

Thomas Muller's recent social media post encapsulates the sentiment, hinting at Bayern's opportunity to defy expectations amid their struggle to retain their Bundesliga title. The stakes are heightened following Bayer Leverkusen's proximity to clinching their first league title, a scenario underscored by Bayern's latest domestic setback.

Arsenal, on the other hand, enters the tie in stellar form, riding a wave of momentum that has seen them conquer formidable opponents and ascend to the summit of the Premier League. The Gunners' recent triumph over Brighton, coupled with a favorable outcome in Liverpool's match, has bolstered their standing, intensifying the sense of anticipation amongst their supporters. With the backdrop of a thriving Emirates Stadium, Mikel Arteta's squad has a golden opportunity to capitalize on Bayern's vulnerabilities and steer the quarter-final in their favor.

The history between Arsenal and Bayern Munich in the Champions League adds layers of intrigue and redemption to this fixture. Arsenal's dramatic penalty shootout victory over Porto in the round of 16 exorcised their past demons, echoing the resilience of the 2009-10 squad that obliterated Porto in a memorable comeback. This narrative of resurgence, mirrored in Arsenal's recent performances, sets the stage for a tantalizing showdown. However, the absence of Bayern's traveling supporters, due to a previous infraction, adds an unexpected twist to the atmosphere expected at North London.

Both teams carry their unique set of challenges and aspirations into this match. Arsenal, buoyed by a series of impressive domestic performances, aims to extend their European journey, eyeing revenge against a Bayern team that has historically outclassed them. Bayern, facing a tumultuous season domestically and haunted by recent European disappointments, looks to the Champions League as a beacon of redemption. With both sides demonstrating vulnerability and resilience in equal measure, this clash is not just a test of skill but a battle of wills, setting the stage for a memorable European night at the Emirates.