Champions League
Apr 9, 2014 7.45pm
3
1
HT : 0 0
FT
  • Mario Mandzukic 59' goal
  • Thomas Muller 68' goal
  • Rafinha 74' yellowcard
  • Arjen Robben 76' goal
  • yellowcard Nemanja Vidic 27'
  • goal Patrice Evra 57'
  • yellowcard Patrice Evra 70'

Preview: Bayern Munich vs. Manchester United

Bayern Munich vs. Man United

Few had backed Manchester United to still be in the tie when they headed to Germany for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich, but last week's 1-1 draw has kept David Moyes's men in contention.

The Red Devils are still regarded as the big underdogs to progress through to the last four at the expense of the holders tomorrow night, but there are some reasons for positivity.

Once perceived as impenetrable, Pep Guardiola's Bayern are without a win from their last three outings in all competitions. What's more, during their previous four meetings with English clubs in the Allianz Arena, the Bavarians are without a victory.

The hosts have selection issues ahead of United's visit, with midfielders Javi Martinez and Bastian Schweinsteiger both suspended. The duo's unavailability is likely to see captain Philipp Lahm continue in a holding midfield role, with potentially Toni Kroos being deployed alongside him.

Elsewhere, having started the first leg among the substitutes, Mario Mandzukic may spearhead the attack at the expense of Thomas Muller, while centre-back Dante should return from a one-match ban.

As for visiting United, their main injury concern centres around Wayne Rooney, who picked up a toe injury in the fixture at Old Trafford. Moyes recently claimed that he was unsure if his talisman would be available, but his presence at today's training session would suggest that he is likely to feature.

Moyes will also have to make a decision between the experienced Patrice Evra and Alexander Buttner at left-back, with veterans Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic reuniting once again at the heart of the defence. Marouane Fellaini could miss out, though, having sat out training, which could result in Tom Cleverley coming into the side.

Former Borussia Dortmund playmaker Shinji Kagawa has been in impressive form of late, but after he started the opening leg on the bench, he could miss out on a place in the starting lineup once again.

In terms of head-to-head clashes, United have made four previous trips to Munich, none of which they have returned to Manchester from with a victory.

Recent form

Bayern: WWWDDL

Man United: WWLWDW

Possible starting lineups

Bayern: Neuer; Alaba, Dante, Boateng, Rafinha; Lahm, Kroos; Ribery, Gotze, Robben; Mandzukic

Man United: De Gea; Evra, Ferdinand, Vidic, Jones; Cleverley, Carrick; Valencia, Young, Welbeck; Rooney

Sports Mole says: 2-0

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