Bundesliga
Hertha Berlin vs Bayern Munich Preview
Hertha Berlin comes to this matchup having received their first loss of the season against Werder Bremen. Similarly, Bayern Munich lost their first points in a draw against Augsburg.
Despite this, Bayern remains unbeaten with the lead and holding 13 points. However, Hertha is not faraway with 10 points and in fourth place.
Against Augsburg, the Bavarians were rather slow in attacking and dependent on striker Robert Lewandowski who did not play. However, Bayern boss Niko Kovac will likely line him up at Olympiastadion in Berlin on Friday.
The Old Lady will look to bounce back from the disappointing loss against River Islanders. A win would jump them to first place temporarily.
Team News:
Hertha boss Pál Dárdai will be without Marius Gersbeck, Peter Pekarik, Vladimir Darida and Jordan Torunarigha. However, they will welcome back Mathew Leckie, who is in the squad for the first time this campaign since his injury.
James Rodriguez and Lewandowski will be back in the lineup for Kovac. Midfielder Renato Sanchez has impressed with his performance in past weeks and will likely also start Friday against Hertha.
There is a possible that Arjen Robben gets dropped from the lineup to rest him with Serge Gnabry or Franck Ribery on the flanks.
Kingsley Coman, Rafinha and Corentin Tolisso are all out due to injuries for Bayern.
Probable Lineups:
Hertha: Kraft; Lazaro, Stark, Rekik, Plattenhardt; Lustenberger, Maier, Kalou, Duda, Dilrosun; Ibisevic.
Bayern: Neuer; Kimmich, Süle, Boateng, Alaba; Thiago, Müller, Sanches, Rodriguez; Ribery; Lewandowski.
Prediction:
Though Bayern has dominated the matchup historically, but the Bavarians have struggled recently against the Old Lady with two draws. With both coming off disappointing performance, Bayern has the upper-hand with more fire-power at front. However, a draw will likely the final score with these two historical Bundesliga clubs.
Prediction: Hertha Berlin 2 – 2 Bayern Munich
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Photo credit to Ai Kagou via Flickr
