Prediction: Barcelona vs Bayern Munich

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 57/20

Bookmaker: 888sport

The UEFA Champions League is back with two more fixtures for all remaining 32 clubs before the groups conclude and we move on to the knockout stages. There’s a whole lot of intrigue behind who is going to qualify in just about every group but predominantly, the Group C tussle between three of Europe’s finest is particularly intriguing. Today, we’ll take a look at the latest chapter of that story as Barcelona host Bayern Munich at the Nou Camp.

Barcelona

While their form in La Liga has been solid so far this season, there are still plenty of clouds hanging over the head of Barcelona right now. In addition to still playing second fiddle to Real Madrid, they also seem to have lost a bit of the ‘heart’ that made them so beloved. From corporate investment to a team made up of signings that seem outlandish given their financial situation, they’ll do well to recover between now and May.

Team News

There are a few decisions that need to be made by Xavi with Roberto, Christensen, Araujo and Depay all being on the shelf.

Bayern Munich

They aren’t currently top of the Bundesliga table but let’s face it, it’s only a matter of time before Bayern Munich reclaim top spot. They are by far the most dominant team in German football but as well as that, they’re also a club who have high expectations for themselves in the Champions League. This time around, you’d be foolish not to pinpoint them as one of the favourites – yet again.

Team News

The visitors have the same number of absentees as their opponents with Sarr, Sane, Neuer and Hernandez suffering from injuries.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in September, Bayern beat Barcelona 2-0.
• Barcelona have won three, drawn one and lost two of their last six games.
• Bayern have won five and drawn one of their last six games.
• Barcelona have scored 12 goals and conceded seven in their last six games.
• Bayern have scored 23 goals and conceded six in their last six games.

Conclusion

Ever since their early season blip, Bayern have looked like a fairly dominant force – and that’s especially true going forward. However, at the same time, Barcelona will understand the heavy stakes attached to a game of this nature, which is why we think they’ll play quite conservative. Ultimately, we’re anticipating a 1-1 draw that probably isn’t going to help either side all too much.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 57/20

Bookmaker: 888sport