Prediction: Bayern Munich vs Barcelona

Prediction: Bayern win

Best Odds: 8/13

Bookmaker: 888sport

It’s been a long few months but we’ve finally arrived at the final set of fixtures in this year’s Champions League group stage. A handful of clubs are already aware of their fate, whether it be qualifying for the knockout stage, dropping down into the Europa League or being knocked out altogether. Today, we’re going to take a look at a meeting between two clubs that have spent years at the elite level: Bayern Munich and Barcelona.

Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich are still regarded as one of the best teams in world football and it’s hard to argue against that case. They’re the kings of Germany, they have a nice blend of youth and experience in their squad and they attack with such intent every single time they play. The dominant nature of their Bundesliga displays breeds confidence, which just proves why “you can only beat what is put in front of you” is so important.

Team News

The consistent presence of COVID-19 will ensure that Choupo-Moting, Cuisance and Kimmich are all out of action for this game with Sabitzer, Sarr and Stanisic being on the shelf through injury.

Barcelona

The rebuilding phase is well and truly underway with Xaxi attempting to transform Barcelona into something greater than they once were, which is going to take a while. The best thing that can be said for them thus far under their former midfield maestro is that they’re showing more defensive stability, so now, they need to focus on finding more success in the final third.

Team News

There are still questions over the future of Sergio Aguero and his potential retirement with Alves not being eligible to play until the new year. Elsewhere, Braithwaite, Pedri and Fati are all out due to respective injuries.

Factors to Consider

• Bayern are in 1st place with 15 points, whereas Barcelona are 2nd with seven points.
• Bayern have won five and lost one of their last six games.
• Barcelona have won three, drawn two and lost one of their last six games.
• Bayern have scored 14 goals and conceded eight in their last six games.
• Barcelona have scored eight goals and conceded five in their last six games.

Conclusion

While this may formerly have been known as one of the biggest clashes in Europe, that’s just not the point we’re at right now. There’s a clear gulf in quality between the two sides and even though we expect Bayern to put out something resembling a weakened side, they’re still more than good enough to beat Barca – which we believe they will do by a 1-0 scoreline.

Prediction: Bayern win

Best Odds: 8/13

Bookmaker: 888sport