Verdict: Bayern/Bayern
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Few people would have imagined this particular matchup would end up being a title challenge and that RB Leipzig would go on to become such a huge title contender in their first season in the Bundesliga.
Bayern Munich
Having won four Bundesliga titles on the trot, Bayern Munich headed into the new 2016-17 season with a new manager at help and with a new set of ambitions which extend far beyond the domestic dominance. Carlo Ancelotti has hit a few bumps on the road but remains on course towards the Bundesliga title and Champions League glory. The Bavarians overcame the November slump which saw them draw against Hoffenheim and suffer consecutive defeats at the hands of Dortmund in the league and FK Rostov in Europe, but a five-match run followed to confirm Bayern Munich are back in business and Ancelotti’s men will be out on a mission to send a clear statement of intent against the most surprising package of the season RB Leipzig. The Bavarians will surely hope their key performer Robert Lewandowski will be able to continue the fine form which saw the striker score 5 goals in the last four matches in all competitions. Three points at the Allianz Arena would allow Bayern Munich to open a gap at the top which would act as a huge morale boost for the Bavarians ahead of the holiday break.
Team News
Jerome Boateng’s muscular injury is likely to keep the defender out of action for another six to ten weeks, whereas Julian Green is yet to feature in the season due to his muscular injury.
Kingsley Coman is still nurturing his knee problem, whereas captain Philipp Lahm has picked up a knock and could miss the Wednesday’s match.
RB Leipzig
Freshly promoted side, a club only founded in 2009, RB Leipzig have a huge chance to finish the year 2016 with a bang. What a closure to dream-like twelve months would a win over reigning champions be as Red Bulls head out to Munich for a title challenge. RB Leipzig have so far done much more than anyone gave them credit for prior to the season’s beginning. Having won 11 of the 15 Bundesliga games, RB Leipzig sit in second, with just goal difference separating them from the Bavarians. Newly promoted side raced through the divisions to reach the top tier after energy drinks maker took over an unknown club and are now sitting in the waiting room of the greatest success in club history. Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men are playing above all expectations and against all odds and are enjoying their football against league’s best. The Wednesday’s game will be a huge opportunity to stake the claim on Bundesliga title in the last game of the year. What a Christmas present that would be for the lowly German club.
Team News
Defender Kyriakos Papadopoulos is missing through a knee injury, whereas Marvin Compper and Ken Gipson are both suffering from ankle problems that will keep them out of action.
Defender Marcel Halstenberg and midfielder Naby Keita have missed the great part of the season due to thigh injuries, but are coming close to full fitness. The pair is still unlikely to take any part on the midweek action though.
Key Aspects to Consider
RB Leipzig have only been founded in 2009
Both sides have won 11 Bundesliga matches this season
Robert Lewandowski bagged 11 goals so far in the league
Bayern Munich are unbeaten at home this season
RB Leipzig’s 1-0 loss to Ingolstadt was their 1st away defeat this term
Conclusion
The match between Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig is the perfect way to close the exciting year of football in Germany. The final Bundesliga round in 2006 is bringing a highly anticipated clash between the biggest and the youngest team in the top tier of German football and fans across the country, and Europe alike, are bound to enjoy the spectacle.
Verdict: Bayern/Bayern
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