Arsene Wenger: History can help Arsenal to beat Bayern Munich

Wenger believes Arsenal can beat Bayern

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger says history gives his side belief they can overcome Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

The Gunners trail 2-0 going into the second leg of the last-16 tie at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday.

Arsenal were also eliminated by Bayern last season but beat the Germans 2-0 at their own ground.

"We know we can do it, because we have already done it," said Wenger. "My team has quality and ambition. History is important in our belief."

Arsenal went out to Bayern on the away goals rule last season, losing 3-1 at home but winning 2-0 in Munich.

The Germans are attempting to become the first side to defend the Champions League crown following their victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley.

In the run-up to Tuesday's game, they secured a record 16th straight Bundesliga win on Saturday, beating Wolfsburg 6-1 to stand 20 points ahead of their rivals at the top of the table.

Bayern, who won the German league, German cup and Champions League last season, have not lost in the league for 49 matches, a run dating back to October 2012.

But Wenger remains undaunted.

"It is a possible task, that is the most important thing," he said. "The way to win is to produce a top-level performance and turn up with quality and belief."

Pep Guardiola's side beat Arsenal at Emirates Stadium on 19 February with second-half goals from Toni Kroos and Thomas Muller, following an early Mesut Ozil penalty miss and the first-half sending off of goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.

Wenger accused the referee of "killing the game" in a post-match interview and has called for the referee to be clever enough to spot any "tricks" on Tuesday.

He watched his side play most of their 2006 Champions League final defeat against Barcelona with 10 men after goalkeeper Jens Lehmann was given a red card.

Robin van Persie wa also sent off as the Gunners went out of the competition against Barca in the Nou Camp in 2011.

"I hope tomorrow we get a fair chance to play with 11 against 11 until the end," said Wenger. "What we want is a good referee."