Introduction
The 126th edition of the Der Klassiker is almost here! We are here to analyze this special game between Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund today. A lot could happen in this game. The Bundesliga is looking very tight this season. Surprisingly, Dortmund hasn’t faired very well. They are currently placed 5th and will want a better position for sure. Meanwhile, Bayern is (as always) atop the table but they aren’t very comfortable. A lot could be decided in this game by the time the final whistle goes off.
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Why Should You be Watching?
Are you a Bayern fan?? Or do you support the Yellow Wall? Or perhaps you might just be neutral. Regardless, this peculiar Bundesliga game could have an impact on a lot of things. If Bayern loses this one and Leipzig later wins their game earlier, they could very well finish atop the table. On the other hand, Dortmund’s loss could mean big trouble. Leverkusen is lurking right behind the Yellows. If they win, they could jump to 5th.
Build Up
Essentially, this game will be very difficult for Dortmund. They will be playing this game without three key players. Both Sancho and Guerreiro are suffering from muscle injuries from their cup clash. The duo picked up minor muscle injuries against Monchengladbach and are not yet fit. We are still unsure about Reyna’s situation. The club is yet to release an official statement but he will certainly be missing out on this game. This leaves Haaland a bit aloof in the attack. The Norwegian star has connected well with Sancho this season and is a good friend of Reyna. Bayern has a good squad going ahead into the fixture and will be looking to dominate. They have won 4 out of the last 6 Der Klassikers. Winning this one too should be easy with an injury-ridden Dortmund.
Bayern Munich form: WLDWW
Borussia Dortmund form: WWDLW
Head to Head
Both teams have locked horns 119 times so far. Bayern won the last three Der Klassikers 3-2, 3-2, and 1-0. This is bad news for Dortmund who has been explosive this season. While Dortmund does have potential, it is perplexing how they find themselves 5th on the table. Their other campaign has been successful. All in all, Bayern has beaten them 59 times. On the other hand, Dortmund has won 31 times and 29 games have been drawn.
Predicted Lineups
Bayern Munich Lineup
GK- Neuer
Defence- Alaba, Boateng, Sule, Davies
CDM- Kimmich, Goretzka,
Attackers- Gnabry, Muller, Sane
Forward- Lewandowski
Borussia Dortmund Lineup
GK- Hitz
Defence- Schulz, Zagadou, Can, Meunier
Midfield- Witsel, Dahoud, Delaney, Dahoud
Forward- Brandt, Haaland
Players to Watch Out For
Leroy Sane
After joining Munich, Sane has quite literally (metaphorically) exploded. His most recent assist to Lewandowski in the Frankfurt game was magnificent. He’s been a vital player for the German club and looks well set. His pace and style will surely be key to unlocking the Dortmund defense.
Thomas Meunier
The Belgian full-back joined the German club just last season from PSG. His arrival was well received and he’s been a regular ever since. He’s already registered a goal and an assist this season. Given the lack of attacking prowess up front, he could easily sneak up to cross or shoot himself.
Robert Lewandowski
Does this man ever stop scoring goals? Bayern wins some, lose one and even draw some. But the one thing that stays for sure is that the Polish international scores. So far he’s had 28 goals and 6 assists and is a fav favorite to win the golden boot.
Erling Haaland
English-born Haaland has lit up the Bundesliga over the last year. His arrival from RB Salzburg was almost neglected at first. For just 20 million, no one expected him to shine this bright across all formats. Today, every club in the world wants him and he’ll surely be looking to score against Munich this weekend.
Conclusion
Overall, this game will surely not disappoint. Although some injuries have played their part in dousing the hype, the quality on the pitch is sure to impress. Both clubs will feel like they need a win out of this one. A draw will certainly be unwanted for both as it will only make things tighter on the table.
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