After 12 rounds, Bayern are six points far from the first place in Bundesliga. In the last match before international break, they shared points with Schalke 1:1 at home. Before that, they had Champion league match against Girondins de Bordeaux also at home and they lost with 0:2. As we can see, they cannot be satisfied lately and tomorrow against Bayer Leverkusen, three points are imperative. They have 3 more games to play before winter break and objectives are clear: the first place in the Bundesliga and qualification to next phase in CL. But Van Gaal will have problems with the line-up, as he can’t count on injured Ribery (problems with the left knee). Also Robben (problems with his right knee) is not fully recovered from injury and he will probably start the match as substitution. Ivica Olic is doubtful after he started with training. "If we win against Bayer Leverkusen - and we must to do that - then again we have everything in our hands," said coach, Louis van Gaal. Even the players are aware of the importance of the game, which can decide of the further course of season. But they are confident before this match also because the tradition which says that Bayern always wins against Leverkusen at home.
20 years without win in Munich
Bayer Leverkusen are holding the top place of the Bundesliga with 26 points. They haven’t lost in the last six games from the cup game against Keiserslautern. They also have the strongest defensive line in the league with only 8 goals conceded until now. Also, the best scorer of the Bundesliga, Stefan Kiessling with 8 scored goals gives them confidence before this traditionally difficult game. They haven’t won in the last 20 years in Munich and Leverkusen lost the last nine encounters against Bayern in Munich. In the last league match, they destroyed Eintracht Frankfurt with 4 goals and proved their good form. Coach Jupp Heyckens is definitely the most responsible for good system of the play and these results. They have been unbeaten until now with 7 wins and 5 draws and they expect to keep unbeaten status after this match too. Renato Augusto will miss this duel for sure because he is recovering from the knee operation but also Adler, Rolfes and Kadlec are doubtful.
Home win should be good option
Bayern have “must win” imperative because this match could change everything. Tradition is on their side and they expect this duel in good atmosphere. Although they have injury problems, squad still have enough quality to fight against the strongest team in the league. Leverkusen on the other side, expect to continue with good results and at least to take one point. This will be tough match for sure, but Bayern like to win in such games, especially against Leverkusen.
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Prediction:
Tip: 1
Odd: 1.90
Bookie: Bet365
Stake: 7 /10
Tipster: Kather
