Bayern Munich are set to host second division side Heidenheim in the quarter-finals of the DFB Pokal at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday night.
The Bavarians have won 16 straight matches against teams from 2. Bundesliga by a combined score of 52-5 and are looking to advance to their ninth consecutive DFB semi-final. Despite missing some key stars for the match, Bayern will expect to win the match comfortably and continue their streak in the competition.
Here’s how Niko Kovac may line up his squad for the quarter-final tie with Heidenheim.
3. Goalkeeper and Defenders
Sven Ulreich (GK) – The 30-year-old keeper has only featured four times for Bayern this season in the absence of Manuel Neuer. Ulreich has performed decently for his side in the games that he has participated in, but his five goals conceded in three Bundesliga matches might be worrying for the manager.
Rafinha (LB) – Rafinha slotted in at left-back for Bayern in every match the team played in March. With David Alaba a doubt for the match, expect the 33-year-old defender to keep his place in the side and attempt to improve on his one goal and two assists this season.
Mats Hummels (CB) – German centre-back Hummels played the full match in Bayern’s previous game against Freiburg and should be well rested following an international break in which he wasn’t selected for his country. The 30-year-old still has a lot to give and will be dangerous on set-piece opportunities against Heidenheim.
Niklas Sule (CB) – Sule played every minute for his country during the international break, but will be itching to get back into the starting XI after coming off the bench in the match against Freiburg. The German defender shouldn’t have much to do defensively against Heidenheim and will be able to knock the ball around the back to spread out the opposition defence.
Joshua Kimmich (RB) – 24-year-old Kimmich has played every minute in the Bundesliga for Bayern this season as a right-back or defensive midfielder. An incredible passer of the ball, Kimmich will be keen on adding to his 14 assists already this season.
2. Midfielders
Javi Martinez (CDM) – Martinez is one of the most important players for Die Roten in every match. The 30-year-old former centre-back is the engine of this Bayern squad and his energy in the middle of the park trickles down to every one of his teammates.
Thiago Alcantara (CM) – Another player who’s style dictates how Bayern generally play, Alcantara will be paired with Martinez in the middle of the park. Thiago’s passing range will be an extremely valuable asset for the Bavarians if they are to break down the low-block Heidenheim are expected to set up for this match.
Serge Gnabry (LM) – Gnabry was the main man for Bayern in their extra-time win against Hertha Berlin in the previous round of the competition. The German winger scored both goals in regular time for Bayern and will be looking to build on this success against a much weaker Heidenheim side.
James Rodriguez (CAM) – Rodriguez will be the creative centrepiece for the Munich side in the upcoming match with Heidenheim. The Colombian’s passing and movement will be vital for Bayern to break down the opposition and will look to combine with Robert Lewandowski whenever possible.
Franck Ribery (RM) – Ribery came on in extra time during the previous round of the DFB Cup against Hertha. The 35-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season and will be hoping to make one last impact in the cup competition before he likely parts with the club in June.
1. Forward
Robert Lewandowski (CF) – Lewandowski will be extremely excited ahead of this match with second division Heidenheim. With 31 goals and 12 assists to his name, the big Polish striker will be keen on bagging a few goals against much weaker opposition than he’s used to.
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