DFB Pokal Preview: Bayern Munich eye convincing win against Viktoria Koln
After enjoying an excellent start to the season, Bayern Munich endured their first setback on Sunday. The defending Bundesliga champions dropped points in a 1-1 draw against Borussia Monchengladbach at Allianz Arena. Die Roten will be looking to bounce back from this disappointing result on Wednesday when they face Viktoria Koln in DFB Pokal.
Die Roten endured a shock exit in DFB Pokal last season when Gladbach handed them a 5-0 defeat at Borussia Park in the second round. The Bavarian club needs to fare well in the cup competitions this season, so Nagelsmann will be eyeing a good performance on Wednesday to set the tone for the entire campaign.
Team News
Bayern will have almost the entire squad available for the game against Viktoria Koln. Nagelsmann confirmed in the press conference that Leon Goretzka is fit to be part of the squad on Wednesday. The German midfielder is gearing up for his first appearance of the season after recovering from a knee injury.
Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting will also travel with the squad on Wednesday. The Cameroon international has been on the sidelines due to an injury since the start of the season. Jamal Musiala is not 100% fit, so he is set to start the game on the bench.
Predicted Starting XI
Sven Ulreich is likely to get his first start to the season. Manuel Neuer has been in fine form this season, but he is likely to be rested on Wednesday. Ulreich will not get many opportunities this season, so he needs to deliver a solid performance against Viktoria Koln.
In the central defense, Matthijs de Ligt is expected to start along with Lucas Hernandez. Josip Stanisic will slot in the left-back position, while Noussair Mazraoui is set to get his first competitive start for Bayern. Mazraoui, de Ligt, and Stanisic will be looking to make the most out of this opportunity since they have been eagerly waiting on the bench for their chance.
Nagelsmann has confirmed that Joshua Kimmich will start on Wednesday in the center of the park. The German international will partner Ryan Gravenberch in the midfield. It will be the first competitive start in Bavarian colours for Gravenberch. Meanwhile, Thomas Muller will start in the number ten role.
Mattys Tel will also get his first start for Bayern on Wednesday. The young French forward will operate as a number nine in place of Sadio Mane. Serge Gnabry and Leroy Sane are likely to start in wide positions against Viktoria Koln.
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Score Prediction:
Viktoria Koln 0-5 Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich has blown the opposition this season on a consistent basis. Koln will find it difficult to cope with the movement of Die Roten’s front four, so it should be a comfortable evening for Rekordmeister.