Bundesliga
Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich Preview
The first Der Klassiker of the season is among us with Borussia Dortmund welcoming Bayern Munich at Westfalenstadion.
However, this is the first time in several years Bayern find themselves as underdogs and in a precarious position due to a recent squad turmoil. Several of the high-profile players are said to have problems with manager Niko Kovac’s coaching style and methods. Additionally, the Munich side are far from their top form and sit third in Bundesliga table.
Meanwhile, Dortmund are thriving on their early season success and being in first place in Bundesliga. American Christian Pulisic alongside English Jadon Sancho are becoming immediate leaders and elite players for the Yellow Army.
This is without one of the best matchups in Bundesliga thus far. However, look to avenge last season’s 6-0 loss and are confident on getting a positive result to keep them undefeated and as leaders.
Team News
Borussia will be without the services of Marcel Schmelzer and Abdou Diallo due to long-term injuries. Other than that, Lucien Favre should have a fully fit side to face Bayern.
Meanwhile, Thiago is still recovering from a long-term ankle ligament injury. While Kingsley Coman is also being ruled out for this match. Additionally, Arjen Robben and Corentin Tolisso are suffering from knee issues and will not be available for the fixture.
Potential Squad
Borussia Dortmund XI: Burki; Piszczek, Akanji, Zagadou, Hakimi; Pulisic, Delaney, Sancho, Reus; Bruun Larsen; Alcacer.
Bayern Munich XI: Neuer; Kimmich, Sule, Hummels, Alaba; Martinez, Gnabry, Goretzka, James, Ribery; Lewandowski.
Prediction
Despite having lost their winning streak at the hands of Atletico de Madrid in Champions League action, Dortmund has a slight edge over Bayern. The black and yellow side has the youth and determination to dethrone Bayern from their long reign in Bundesliga and set them as true title contenders.
However, Bayern is Bayern. Don’t for a moment believe that it will be easy for Dortmund. Look for this one to be leveled, with incredible competitiveness and physicality which will put Dortmund over with some late goals.
Prediction: Borussia Dortmund 3 – 2 Bayern Munich
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Photo credit to Dickson Dagogo via Flickr