Three key battles as Bayern Munich host Borussia Monchengladbach

Benjamin Pavard vs Marcus Thuram

Bayern has been efficient in the final third in the past four months, scoring at least two goals every game. Defensively they have been fairly decent, conceding only four goals in five games till now. Benjamin Pavard has been a mainstay in the back four during this good run of form.

The French defender has been dominating the right flank, keeping every winger quiet with his astute positioning. Pavard is conservative while going forward, plainly due to the presence of an immense outlet on other flank in Alphonso Davies. He becomes third central defender when Davies motors ahead, defending the channel and making sure that the team is in good shape to defend counter-attacks.

On Saturday, Pavard will come up against one of the best wide players in Bundesliga, Marcus Thuram. The French winger has been a key outlet for Monchengladbach in the final third, scoring ten and creating eight goals. Thuram drops inside and takes up good positions in the box to finish the chances set up by his teammates.

Thuram will be a tricky winger to content for Pavard. He can provide width along with attacking channels between the central defender and full-back. Pavard may have to compromise his attacking instincts tomorrow to contain Thuram. A fascinating battle between two French players could go on to deciding the fate of this game. (Stats courtesy: Whoscored)