Bayern Munich are another side who will feel that this simply is their year, after they progressed to the final after a penalty shootout against Real Madrid, as they play the showpiece game at their own stadium, the Allians Arena. They weathered an early storm, going 2-0 before levelling the tie, and will feel they deserve their place in the final on the 19th of May. Can they lift the trophy in their home city?
A neutral would definitely say that Bayern are the favourites, with their attacking options of Ribery, Robben, Gomez and Muller sure to test Chelsea’s depleted defence. The Blues are definitely without Ivanovic and Terry, and Cahill and Luiz are extremely doubtful with hamstring injuries. Surely Chelsea’s luck will run out and teams will not be so wasteful against them? Gomez has scored at a rate of knots this season, yet did miss crucial chances during the semi-final tie, despite also scoring the winner in the home game. On paper they look much strong, but that counts for nothing these days, just ask Barcelona.
Defensively, they also have issues as Alaba and Badstuber from their back four miss out due to suspension, and enforcer Luiz Gustavo likewise. This is the one crumb of comfort for Chelsea who will also be without Ramires and Meireles for their biggest game in recent history. If Di Matteo can find a way to get Mata into central areas he can influence the game more, shifted out to the right against Barcelona he barely even touched the ball.
Still, it would take a brave man to bet against Bayern in Munich. It will need another defensive effort of Greek mythology proportions if Chelsea are to finally get their hands on the trophy that has eluded them so much.
Champions League Odds
Bayern Munich 1.46
Chelsea 3.1
TIF’s prediction – BM 2-1 CFC
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