Manchester United face a daunting task on Wednesday night ‘“ conquer Bayern Munich on the latter’s own backyard.
Manchester United face a daunting task on Wednesday night – conquer Bayern Munich on the latter’s own backyard. Can they do it? Well, Bayern manager Pep Guardiola thinks so. During a press conference prior to the match Guardiola said, “I think United will be again waiting for us at the back. They will be waiting deep, deep in their own half. English teams defend and then wait for the quick break (United coach) David Moyes also has eight, nine players at the back. They are waiting for mistakes, set pieces and breaks. That is why we have to be disciplined. We are playing at home and that is important and we know exactly what to do to attack well.”
Before the tie even kicks off, there were reports surging in that the Red Devils’ talisman Wayne Rooney might not face the German champions. But those reports were put to bed when the Englishman turned up for training at the Manchester United grounds. The 28-year-old Rooney missed United’s 4-0 win at Newcastle United on Saturday due to a toe injury.
Despite the absence of their striker Robin van Persie, the burden of providing that extra bit of magic solely depends on Wayne Rooney. The likes Patrice Evra (knee), Ryan Giggs (groin) and Ashley Young (hand) also took part despite injury concerns.
Meanwhile, Bayern have a few concerns of their own as German midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger and Spain’s Javi Martinez both suspended, while attacking midfielder Thiago Alcantara is injured. Also, the Bavarian giants were finally halted of their winning perch when they suffered their first Bundesliga defeat in 18 months as they were beaten 1-0 at Augsburg on Saturday.
Though Bayern Munich still remains favourites to win the tie, one must not forget that anything is possible in the game of Football. The current European champions have already picked up three titles in Guardiola’s nine months in charge, including securing the Bundesliga title with a record seven games to spare and remain 20 points clear in the table.
Final result – Bayern Munich are a powerful bunch of unit with the likes of Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery bombing the flanks. Manchester United have to be brave and David Moyes must instil that thought into the players’ minds. Bayern will be too strong for United and favouring the Bavarian giants to go through in this tie.
Scoreline – 4-1 to Bayern Munich
