Bayern Munich will look to pip PSG at the top of their Champions League group as they host the French giants at the Allianz Arena this week. Already assured of qualification to the knockout rounds, the Bavarians will be needing a 4:0 win in order to better their French opposition in the overall group standings come the end of this matchday.
The massive 3:0 defeat in the reverse fixture, none more than a couple of months ago, signalled the departure of former Carlo Ancelotti but normal service has returned to Bavaria ever since the legendary Jupp Heynckes took charge of the club at the start of October.
The veteran head coach of Bayern started his fourth tenure at the club with nine successive wins. They fell at the hands of Borussia Monchengladbach but responded well with a stunning 3:1 win over Hannover in the recent matchday. The German league leaders will be hopeful of claiming a redemption against Unai Emery’s men as they look to end their Champions League campaign in a strong fashion.
On the flip side, PSG are coming into this game, on the back of a hugely disappointing defeat against Strasbourg, which was their first defeat of the season. Although PSG are still leading the Ligue 1 table by a whopping nine points, the French giants can’t afford a slip up against the mighty Bavarians this midweek.
Team News
Injuries to first-choice goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and star midfielder Thiago Alcantara will significantly decrease the level of quality from the Bayern team. In addition, key attacker Arjen Robben is also set to miss out for the clash due to a muscle fibre.
However, the return of Thomas Muller will be a massive boost for the Bavarians. The German International featured in weekend’s win over Hannover and is a strong candidate for a starting place in the squad this midweek. Furthermore, Bayern will also be boosted by the form of winger Kingsley Coman, who scored one and made another in the win against Hannover. He will be desperate to perform well against his former club.
As for Paris-Saint Germain, they will be without the services of veteran midfielder Thiago Motta. His vast experience in the centre of the field could have been a huge bonus for the Parisians. Other than that, the French outfit boasts an almost fit squad in the lead up to their exciting midweek clash versus Bayern.
The stunning form of Neymar, who has scored 15 goals in 17 games in all competitions since he joined PSG from Barcelona, will be a worry for the Bayern defence. He is expected to form PSG’s attacking trio alongside Edinson Cavani and youngster Kylian Mbappe.
Predicted Lineups
Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1 formation):
Sven Ulreich; Joshua Kimmich, Jerome Boateng, Mats Hummels, David Alaba; Javi Martinez, Arturo Vidal; Kingsley Coman, Thomas Muller, James Rodriguez; Robert Lewandowski.
PSG (4-3-3 formation):
Alphonso Areola; Dani Alves, Marquinhos, Thiago Silva, Layvin Kurzawa; Adrien Rabiot, Marco Verratti, Julian Draxler; Kylian Mbappe, Edinson Cavani, Neymar.
Prediction
Bayern 2:1 PSG
Odds
Bayern Munich Win: 6/4
Draw: 14/5
PSG Win: 7/4
