By Hassan Talib Haji
Bayern Munich legend Stefan Effenberg believes Arsenal can trouble the reigning European champions if they deploy an attacking strategy in both legs of their Champions League clash.
The Gunners host Pep Guardiola's side on Wednesday in the last 16 as the Premier League title chasers aim to become just the second team to beat Bayern since July 2013.
With creative talents such as Mesut Ozil, Olivier Giroud and Santi Cazorla in their squad, however, Effenberg is expecting a close game and believes that the London side have an outside chance of causing an upset.
The Sky television pundit, 45, who played 95 games for Bayern, told Goal: "I have a great anticipation for this match. We will see the best team in the world against an opponent who is very capable of troubling the defending champions. I expect a beautiful but tight match.
"Arsenal really do not have to hide. They strengthened their squad well and they play good football going forward. I expect an open match with not too much tactical interference. Both have their strengths in the offence and both want to push their game through.
"If Bayern has a weakness, it might be their defence. You can beat them there, even though it is very difficult. There is a chance, but Bayern remains the favourite for me."
Goals from Giroud and Laurent Koscielny helped Arsenal claim a 2-0 win against Bayern the last time the two sides met and, although the Gunners were knocked out of the Champions League on away goals after losing 3-1 at Emirates Stadium.
Effenberg added: "Arsenal won impressively in Munich, 2-0. They almost kicked Bayern out of the competition. Bayern felt too safe because of the first leg. And this is what I expect from the upcoming two matches as well. It will be tight and there will be drama. Every fan can look forward to it.
"I believe Bayern will make the final again, even though it is not going to be easy. I don't think there will be another all-German final."
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