Arsenal produced a spirited late response to secure a 2-2 draw against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, but one moment in their comeback particularly caught the attention of TNT Sports pundit Ally McCoist.
Mikel Arteta’s side travelled to the Allianz Arena looking to maintain their strong start to the league phase, knowing they would face a stern test against one of Europe’s most formidable sides on home soil.
After an entertaining contest featuring quality finishes, momentum swings and plenty of pressure, the Gunners found a way back into the game late on. McCoist was quick to praise the move that brought them level, highlighting an important contribution that helped turn the attack into a goal.
Ally McCoist praises Arsenal Viktor Gyokeres after crucial equaliser
Arsenal’s equaliser arrived in the 82nd minute, with Declan Rice firing past Manuel Neuer to make it 2-2 after Bayern Munich had taken the lead from the penalty spot.
However, it was the build-up to Rice’s finish that drew particular praise from McCoist, who was impressed by the quality of the link-up play and the strength shown in the decisive moment.
Speaking on TNT Sports, the former Scotland international said: “It's a brilliant Arsenal goal. I'm so pleased for Gyokeres as he takes a lovely weighted touch to put the ball into Rice's path. It's a beautiful little pass.
“He's holding off a strong man. Gyokeres wins it, and Rice finishes it well. We've seen some great football.”
The comments offered encouragement for Viktor Gyökeres, whose contribution helped Arsenal find a route through Bayern’s defence at a crucial stage of the match.
Rather than simply focusing on the finish, McCoist highlighted the work required to create the opportunity. Gyökeres’ touch and pass allowed Rice to move into a dangerous position, while the striker’s ability to hold off his opponent helped Arsenal retain possession and complete the move.
For Rice, the chance was an opportunity to cap a determined Arsenal response with a composed finish. For Arteta, it was a reminder of the value of combinations between his attacking players and midfielders when the pressure is on.
The equaliser also ensured Arsenal left Munich with a result after Bayern had threatened to take control of the contest.
Arsenal fight back to earn point against Bayern Munich
Arsenal had made a promising start to the game, taking the lead in the 25th minute through Eberechi Eze. The midfielder finished after a slick move involving Martin Ødegaard, giving the visitors an early reward for their attacking intent.
Bayern responded ten minutes later, with Alphonso Davies finding the net after being released by Harry Kane. The hosts carried that momentum into the second half and moved ahead in the 61st minute when Kane converted a penalty following a handball decision against Jurrien Timber.
With Arsenal facing the prospect of leaving Germany empty-handed, Rice’s late strike proved decisive.
The 2-2 draw reflected an absorbing encounter between two sides capable of creating opportunities and punishing defensive lapses. Arsenal showed resilience to recover after falling behind, while their late response demonstrated their ability to remain competitive against elite European opposition.
McCoist’s praise for the equaliser also underlined how important the work before a finish can be. Rice supplied the decisive shot, but the movement, touch and physical battle in the build-up helped make the goal possible.
Arsenal will take encouragement from their comeback as their Champions League campaign continues, with the point in Munich providing a valuable reward for their persistence






