Barcelona vs Bayern Munich – UEFA Champions League – Preview

Posted on May 6, 2015 by Sreya

Pep Guardiola will return to Camp Nou as Bayern Munich face Barcelona in the first leg of the second semi-final of the 2014/15 UEFA Champions League. The stage is set for the return of the Catalan’s prodigal son, who once took the entire of Europe by storm with his tiki-taka style of play, showcased via his Barcelona side.

Team News & Formation

Luis Enrique’s side does not have any injury or suspension concerns. Bayern Munich, however, will miss David Alaba, Arjen Robben and Holger Badstuber through injuries. Franck Ribery and Robert Lewandowski are doubtful as well, although, the latter might start the game.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen is expected to start in goal for Barcelona. Neymar, Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez will form the front three, with Andres Iniesta, Sergio Busquets and Ivan Rakitic in the midfield, in Barcelona’s preferred 4-3-3.

Guardiola have regularly set up Bayern Munich in a 3-4-2-1 with Philip Lahm, Xabi Alonso, Thiago Alcantara and Juan Bernat in the midfield. Mehdi Benatia, Jerome Boateng and Rafinha are expected to resume their roles in the central defense, while Mario Gotze and Thomas Mueller back up Robert Lewandowski in the attack.

Contributor’s Pick

The last time both these clubs faced each other in the Champions League in 2012/13, Bayern Munich convincingly defeated the Spanish side over both legs. The odds for the first leg are in favour of Barcelona though, with 1.73 for a Barcelona win, 4.00 for a draw and 5.00 for a Bayern Munich victory. Based on current form, Barcelona should win this match 3-2.