Rumours were rife ahead of this fixture that top scorer Wayne Rooney would get some playing time. That has however been ruled out. Man Utd will now have to rely on the likes of Antonio Valencia (who by the way was very impressive in the knockout stages), Berbatov, Nani, Park and Giggs.
United who are looking to erase memories of a terrible week, will have their work cut out for them as they entertain a full strength Bayern squad. Robben and Klose who missed the first leg due to injury are expected back in the squad to partner Ribery and Olic in what will be a killer attacking force.
In my opinion, the 2-1 scoreline does not favour any of these teams. If you were to look at this whole scenario objectively, both United and Munich have significant advantages. First, United are playing at home so the pressure will be on Munich . Second, they have the away goal and finally United have had a much more better record in this Competition in recent years than their opponents.
Bayern Munich on the other hand will be encouraged to know that perennial danger men Robben and Klose will be available for this fixture. Bayern also have the psychological advantage over United. Louis Van Gaal will definitely exploit this to his benefit. If his team can beat United once then they can do it again. Finally, there is always the possibility of Bayern striking on the counter attack. There is no doubt that United will commit men forward in search of goals, however, who quickly they recover to defend is what will be the difference.
United’s starting line up will probably include: Van de Sar, Neville, Vidic, Ferdinand, Evra, Fletcher, Carrick, Valencia, Park, Nani and Berbatov. Bayern’s starting line up on the hand will include: Butt, Lahm, Van Buyten, Demichelis, Budstuber, Gomez, Van Bommel, Robben, Ribery, Olic and Klose.
Although either of these teams can win the game, i believe Bayern will beat United with a similar 2-1 margin.
Photo credit: rikiriki2008
