Bayern Munich target a return to the Champions League semi-finals as they host Sevilla on Wednesday.
The Bavarians clinched their sixth consecutive Bundesliga title on Saturday after a good performance against Augsburg. Bayern Munich will now switch their attention to the cup competitions, and the Champions League is on their agenda this week. They host Sevilla for the second leg of the quarter-final tie, which they lead 2-1 on aggregate.
Bayern Munich were not at their absolute best in the first leg against the Spanish side. The German champions went one goal down before salvaging a narrow win with two crucial away goals. Bayern have been formidable at home this season, though, and they will be hoping to deliver a better performance than in the first leg.
Sevilla have been struggling in La Liga. They suffered a heavy defeat against Celta Vigo on Saturday. The Spaniards have nothing to lose in this game and are likely to attack straightaway as they need some important away goals. Sevilla surprised many by beating Manchester United in the previous round, and they will be hoping to deliver a similar performance on Wednesday.
Team News
Bayern Munich have some selection concerns ahead of their game against Sevilla. Arturo Vidal has been ruled out for this game. The Chilean is expected to return to action next week. Along with Vidal, David Alaba is also likely to miss this game despite training with the team.
💬 Jupp #Heynckes: "@David_Alaba and @JB17Official completed the full training session. Boateng isn't feeling any pain, but Alaba hasn't trained in the last days, so I think he still needs a little time." #FCBSFC pic.twitter.com/z4OAbpznHJ
— FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) April 10, 2018
Jerome Boateng is declared fit for this game after suffering a minor knock. Jupp Heynckes also gave an update on Kingsley Coman’s fitness. The Frenchman is expected to return to action next month. Meanwhile, Manuel Neuer is slowly regaining fitness but is unlikely to feature against Sevilla.
Predicted XI
Heynckes praised Sven Ulreich in his pre-match press conference for his consistency this season. The German goalkeeper is definitely starting on Wednesday. Rafinha is likely to replace Alaba in the left-back position, while Joshua Kimmich will slot in the right-back position. In the heart of the defense, Mats Hummels will partner Jerome Boateng.
Javi Martinez has been a key player for Heynckes and the Spaniard will occupy the defensive midfield position. Thiago Alcantara is likely to partner his countryman in the absence of Vidal. James Rodriguez is the favorite to start in the attacking midfield position.
Robert Lewandowski will lead the line for the German Champions. Heynckes will have to make a decision on his wide players, as both the veterans are available. It is likely that he sticks with Thomas Muller on the right with Franck Ribery slotting on the left flank.
"UlreichKimmich-Boateng-Hummels-RafinhaMartinez-ThiagoMuller-Rodriguez-RiberyLewandowski"
Opposition Focus
Sevilla are likely to play hard on the counter as Bayern will dominate possession. The Spanish side have numerous fast players who can hurt on the breaks. Ever Banega is a key player for the visitors as the Argentine has created the most chances for Sevilla in Champions League this season. Although Banega missed the first leg, he will be back for tomorrow’s match.
Wissam Ben Yedder produced a brilliant cameo against Manchester United at Old Trafford. The Frenchman can cause serious problems with his clever movement. Bayern Munich will require an early goal to stamp their authority in the game. The home side are favorites right now, but they will have to be better than they were in the first leg to go through comfortably.
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Prediction
Bayern Munich 3-1 Sevilla