Bayern vs Koln: Die Roten seek to get back to normal
Reigning champs Bayern Munich will be aiming to get back on track when they take on Koln on Saturday afternoon.
Die Roten were beaten 2-1 by Eintracht Frankfurt last round and although they still remain on top of the table, RB Leipzig could overtake them should they fail to win here. Frankfurt have been among the most in form sides in Europe (along with Wolfsburg) but nonetheless, the loss will still sting for Bayern, who are seeking to successfully defend their league crown for yet another season. However, the loss came on the heels of a surprise stalemate against Arminia Bielefeld, during which Bayern had to come from behind in order to restore parity. In fact, were it not for some sloppy defending by the visitors, who conceded all their three goals in the second half, Hansi Flick’s side would have been given a rude shock at the Allianz Arena.
Nonetheless, Bayern come into this match having cruised to a 4-1 win over Lazio, although given the gulf between the two sides in terms of Champions League experience, anything but a win would have been unsatisfactory. The hosts are still dealing with several absentees, with Benjamin Pavard positive for COVID-19, while Douglas Costa and Corentin Tolisso look likely to miss the rest of the season, but should be able to get back to winning ways here. Koln arrive at the Allianz Arena having won only five times so far, albeit two of those have been in their most recent five matches. That being said, the Billy Goats have failed to score in eight of their last 11 Bundesliga games and haven’t beaten Bayern in Munich in 12 years.
However, Bayern have had their issues as well. Despite Robert Lewandowski scoring goals at a record- setting pace, their leaky defense has been a source of concern. So far, Flick’s side have conceded 31goals. To put this in perspective, Leipzig have only conceded 18, while Wolfsburg, who sit in third spot have shipped just 19. While many sides wouldn’t think that 31 goals is too terrible – especially as Bayern have scored twice that – seventh-placed Union Berlin have also conceded fewer goals (25). So that just may give Koln a glimmer of hope of potentially rattling the Bavarian titans in this tie.
With Leipzig, who are on a four-match winning streak facing Borussia Moenchengladbach (who have failed to win their last four), the onus will really be on Bayern to avoid what would be a very embarrassing slip-up in this crunch clash. Will we see a shake-up in the league table by the time matchday 23 concludes? Neutrals will of course say yes – as this has been the most interesting title races in recent times. Bayern supporters will obviously have a very different response, naturally. Given how strange this season has been, it goes without saying that Bayern will be leaving nothing to chance – despite boasting a very strong record against their visitors – as they want to avoid another repeat of their last home match against Arminia Bielefeld.
