Bayern Munich midfielder James Rodriguez believes that the Bavarians can overcome Liverpool next week despite arguably going in as underdogs.
Niko Kovac faces his first daunting challenge in the Champions League next week, when Bayern Munich to travel to Anfield to face Liverpool in the first leg of the competition’s round of 16. Die Roten have a Bundesliga game to play against Augsburg on Friday, but the players surely have at least one eye on Tuesday’s mouthwatering clash of titans.
For many Liverpool are considered favorites for this game due to their form this season and their admirable performance in the Champions League last campaign. Speaking to Sport Bild (via Bundesliga.com), James Rodriguez insisted that his side have all the necessary qualities to come back home from Anfield with a positive result.
"“I’m very much looking forward to facing Liverpool.“You can’t make mistakes in these games, but I think we can cause Liverpool problems. We have a team that’s good enough to go through if it goes well.”"
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James is in line to start against Liverpool in both games as Thomas Muller has been suspended for both legs of the tie. His relationship with Niko Kovac is reportedly on the rocks. However, the former Monaco midfielder has been in great form over the past two weeks. Kovac has rewarded James with consecutive appearances in the starting lineup and publicly praised his creative midfielder.
The midfielder on loan from Real Madrid also admitted in his interview that he is slowly gaining some much-needed match rhythm. James has struggled with fitness this season and missed almost two months injured prior to the winter break. The Colombian was a pivotal player for Bayern in the Champions League group stage, though, so Kovac will be hoping he can emulate those performances in the knockout rounds.
Bayern will need to find the back of the net at Anfield, as Liverpool have more than enough quality in attack to score away from home. James, who has the ability to unlock any defense with his creativity, vision and passing range, will be the chief source of creativity for Bayern Munich.
Kovac will also have to find a way to instill some defensive organization into his squad to nullify the threat of Mohammed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino. The attacking trio has been in great form once again this season and will be raring to go against the German champions. The Croatian has already received a massive boost this week, when Manuel Neuer claimed he should be fit for the game. Kovac’s season has not been too successful so far, but a win over Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool would prove he’s the real deal.