Match Preview
Chelsea face a daunting task as they travel to the Allianz Arena to take on Bayern Munich in the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie. Bayern hold a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg, leaving Chelsea with a mountain to climb if they are to progress to the quarter-finals.
This fixture is a rematch of the 2012 Champions League final٫ where Bayern emerged victorious at their home stadium. Since that defeat٫ Bayern have a strong record against English sides in the competition٫ eliminating them in four out of their last five home/away ties.
The two teams have a history of entertaining matches, with their previous four meetings in all competitions producing 17 goals. Bayern are in formidable form, having scored at least six goals in their last seven Champions League contests, while Chelsea have struggled in away knockout games, failing to win any of their last eight.
Team News and Lineups
Bayern Munich will be without the suspended Leon Goretzka, who was sent off in the first leg. Otherwise, Thomas Tuchel has a full squad to choose from, including the likes of Joshua Kimmich, Jamal Musiala, and Harry Kane.
Chelsea are without Reece James and N’Golo Kanté through injury, while Mykhailo Mudryk is a doubt. Mauricio Pochettino will be hoping to get a strong performance from his attacking trio of Raheem Sterling, Nicolas Jackson, and Christopher Nkunku.
Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1)⁚ Sommer; Davies٫ Upamecano٫ De Ligt٫ Pavard; Kimmich٫ Laimer; Coman٫ Musiala٫ Sané; Kane
Chelsea (4-3-3)⁚ Sanchez; Chilwell, Badiashile, Silva, Gusto; Fernandez, Caicedo, Gallagher; Sterling, Jackson, Nkunku
Betting Odds and Predictions
The odds reflect Bayern Munich’s dominance in this tie, with bookmakers expecting a comfortable victory for the German giants. Bayern are priced as short as 1/3 to win the match, while Chelsea are as high as 10/1. The draw is available at around 5/1.
Given Bayern’s strong home form and Chelsea’s struggles in away knockout games, a Bayern win seems the most likely outcome. However, Chelsea may be able to salvage some pride and potentially get a goal or two, making “Both Teams to Score” an interesting bet.
Here are some key odds to consider⁚
- Bayern Munich to win⁚ 1/3
- Chelsea to win⁚ 10/1
- Draw⁚ 5/1
- Both Teams to Score⁚ Yes ─ 2/5, No ⏤ 7/5
- Over 2.5 Goals⁚ 4/5, Under 2.5 Goals⁚ 10/11
Betting Tips
Given the substantial lead Bayern Munich hold, it’s difficult to see Chelsea pulling off an upset. However, with the potential for some goals, there are a few betting tips worth considering⁚
- Over 2.5 Goals⁚ Bayern’s potent attack and Chelsea’s recent vulnerability defensively could lead to a high-scoring encounter. With Bayern averaging six goals in their last seven Champions League matches, the “Over 2.5 Goals” market holds appeal;
- Both Teams to Score⁚ While unlikely that Chelsea can overturn the deficit, they might be able to salvage some pride with a goal. This bet offers a decent return with a chance for a goal from both sides.
- Bayern Munich to Win to Nil⁚ With Bayern’s superior form and a comfortable advantage, a clean sheet for them might be a worthwhile bet.
Remember, these are just suggestions, and it’s essential to conduct your own research and consider your own betting strategy before placing any wagers.
Free Bets
Many bookmakers offer enticing free bets for new customers, allowing you to wager on this exciting Champions League clash without risking your own money. Here are some of the common free bet offers⁚
- Bet £10, Get £20 in Free Bets⁚ This popular offer allows you to wager £10 on the match, and in return, you’ll receive £20 in free bets to use on other sporting events.
- Risk-Free Bet up to £50⁚ This offer provides a safety net for your first bet, refunding your stake if it loses up to a specified amount.
- Enhanced Odds⁚ Some bookmakers offer boosted odds on specific markets for the match, giving you a greater potential return on your wager.
It’s essential to compare the various free bet offers available from different bookmakers to find the one that best suits your betting needs. Remember to check the terms and conditions carefully, as some offers may have wagering requirements before you can withdraw your winnings.
Head-to-Head
Chelsea and Bayern Munich have a storied history, having met on numerous occasions in European competition. Their most famous encounter was the 2012 Champions League final, which Bayern won 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Since then, the two teams have clashed four times, with Bayern holding a slight edge in the head-to-head record.
Here’s a summary of their recent matches⁚
- February 25, 2020⁚ Bayern Munich 3-0 Chelsea (Champions League Round of 16, First Leg)
- March 8, 2020⁚ Chelsea 1-4 Bayern Munich (Champions League Round of 16, Second Leg)
- August 8, 2020⁚ Bayern Munich 4-1 Chelsea (Champions League Round of 16)
- August 11٫ 2020⁚ Chelsea 0-3 Bayern Munich (Champions League Round of 16)
In their last five meetings, Bayern have won four times, while Chelsea have only managed one victory. Bayern’s dominant form against Chelsea in recent years makes this a challenging matchup for the Blues.
Recent Form
Bayern Munich are currently in exceptional form, having won 21 out of their last 22 competitive fixtures. Their dominance extends to their home matches, where they have scored an impressive 31 goals in just 10 games since January 1st.
Chelsea, on the other hand, have had a mixed start to the season. They have played just one fixture so far, a 3-0 victory over Arsenal, which suggests they are capable of performing well. However, they face a significant challenge against a formidable Bayern Munich side.
While Chelsea’s recent form is positive, Bayern’s current dominance in both domestic and European competition makes them the clear favorites heading into this fixture.
Key Players
Bayern Munich’s attack is spearheaded by the prolific Robert Lewandowski, who has been a consistent goal-scoring threat for the German giants. The likes of Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman provide further attacking potency, making Bayern a formidable force in the final third.
Chelsea’s hopes of causing an upset rest heavily on the shoulders of their attacking duo, Raheem Sterling and Kai Havertz. These players will need to be at their best to penetrate a strong Bayern defense and make a difference in the game.
The midfield battle is crucial, with Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka expected to control the tempo for Bayern, while Chelsea will look to Enzo Fernández to dictate play and create opportunities for their attackers.
Bayern Munich are overwhelming favorites to secure their place in the Champions League quarter-finals, given their impressive form, home advantage, and the commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg. Chelsea face a monumental challenge, needing to overturn a significant deficit and overcome a Bayern team that has proven to be a formidable opponent.
While a Chelsea comeback is not impossible, it will require a monumental effort and some inspired performances from their key players. The outcome of the match will likely depend on Chelsea’s ability to score early and maintain a high level of intensity throughout the game.
