Bundesliga action continues this week as we look forward to the biggest domestic fixture in Germany and one of the biggest rivalries in Europe. Yes, it’s DerKlassiker time, it’s time for the clash of the two biggest clubs in the country, it’s time for Bayern Munich vs Borussia Dortmund.
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Preview
Despite the fact that Bayern has clearly been the dominant side recently, this fixture never lacks energy, enthusiasm, and entertainment. A win for Bayern would guarantee them their 10th consecutive Bundesliga title. On the other hand, for BVB this is more like a battle for pride, in what has been a rather disappointing season for them. The result might not even affect where these two teams will finish in the table, but this game comes as a great opportunity for Dortmund to take full advantage of Bayern’s poor recent form and end Bayern’s dominance in this fixture.
Team News
Bayern Munich
The French duo of Hernandez and Coman should be back in contention for their potential ‘title-clincher’ clash. Tanguy Nianzou and Marcel Sabitzer might make way for them. Leroy Sane could be starting for the Bavarians in this game, after having started on the bench last week against Arminia Bielefeld. Tolisso still stays out of contention as he continues his recovery.
Predicted line-up:
Manuel Neuer, Alphonso Davies, Dayot Upamecano, Lucas Hernandez, Benjamin Pavard, Leon Goretzka, Joshua Kimmich, Kingsley Coman, Muller, Serge Gnabry, Robert Lewandowski
Borussia Dortmund
The Black and Yellows will be missing the services of some of their main players such as Gregor Kobel, Mats Hummels, Gio Reyna, Steffen Tigges, and Axel Witsel in this huge game. While Thorgan Hazard and Donyell Malen also remain a big doubt for this clash. Despite such a long list of injured players, they were able to thrash Wolfsburg 6-1 at home last week, with youngster Tom Rothe scoring on his debut.
Predicted line-up:
Marwin Hitz, Pongracic, Akanji, Zagadou, Wolf, Bellingham, Emre Can, Guerreiro, Brandt, Reus, Haaland
Key Battle: Striker vs Striker
Robert Lewandowski
The Polish superstar has been sensational this season for his club, once again. He has already netted 45 goals across all competitions. He particularly loves scoring against his former team and no doubt he would be giving a tough time to this inexperienced Dortmund defense.
Erling Haaland
Lately, the Der Klassiker has often been termed the ‘Battle of the strikers’. This man, just like his Polish counterpart, doesn’t need any introduction. He has managed to bag 25 goals this season, despite missing a fair number of games due to injury. No wonder he can cause a worry or two for any defense in the world.
Head-to-Head
The two have come head-to-head 106 times in the past. Bayern has won 51, they have drawn 30 and Dortmund has won 25. The last time Dortmund defeated their Klassiker rivals dates back to 2019. Since then, Bayern has been dominant despite some close competition throughout the games.
Players to watch out for
Bayern Munich
Kingsley Coman
The French winger will be making a comeback to the starting XI after missing last week’s game. His services always play a key role in Bayern’s game, which doesn’t come as a surprise considering his lethal combination of pace and skills.
Borussia Dortmund
Marco Reus
The BVB skipper came up with a captain’s performance last week, providing two assists. He’s one of the few experienced veterans in this BVB team full of youngsters. He will have a key role to play for his team.
Conclusion
If Dortmund can sure up their defense, then they could stand a chance of frustrating their hosts as numerous sides have in recent weeks. Although still, Bayern stands a slightly better chance of winning. It won’t be surprising if the hosts come up with a narrow win.
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