Prediction: Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich

11th May 2012

DFB Pokal is not really considered a very important competition in Germany, but the perspective changes when arch rivals Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich contest for the trophy. The pressure is clearly on the Bavarians after the Millionaires won the Bundesliga title for the second successive season, but the match at Olympiastadion in Berlin should be a tightly contested affair nonetheless.

Borussia Dortmund needed some time to return to old glory days as last year’s Bundesliga title was their first after nine years, but, having returned to the top, Jurgen Klopp’s side look determined to remain there for as long as possible. In spite of the dismal start to the new Bundesliga campaign, BVB managed to defend the league title thanks to the run of 16 victories in last 18 games, whereas the two wins over title rivals Bayern Munich certainly did no harm. Borussia are now set to face their rivals for the third time this season, with everybody at the club hoping Jurgen Klopp’s side can beat Bayern to yet another trophy. The team have done so well in Mario Goetze’s absence that another substitute appearance from the highly rated midfielder is unlikely to be a problem, with Klopp not expected to make changes to the side that beat Freiburg last time out.

Bayern Munich are clearly not used to trailing anyone when it comes to domestic competitions and another failure in Bundesliga appears to have upset the club chiefs. That is one of the reasons why the Bavarians are under pressure to win the DFB Pokal, but this season cannot be dubbed a failure just yet. While somewhat struggling on domestic stage, the team have done brilliantly to reach the Champions League final and the fact they take on Chelsea at their Alianz Arena makes them the favourites in what will be a game of the season for the German giants. The clash against Dortmund, on the other hand, can be seen as a perfect opportunity to restore some of the lost confidence end ensure they go into the Chelsea game in the best possible mood. Everybody at Bayern camp is adamant the DFB Pokal final is extremely important for them and we have no reason to think otherwise. Apart from Van Buyten and Breno, Jupp Heynckes has fully fit squad to choose from.

Conclusion

Borussia Dortmund have won both clashes with Bayern this season, but I just cannot see them winning the third game as well. The Bavarians are extremely motivated to get one over their rivals and they are high on confidence following the impressive run of results, so my advice is to back them to lift the trophy.

Verdict: Bayern to lift the trophy

Best Odds: 3/4

Bookmaker: Stan James