Bayern Munich vs. Werder Bremen | Bundesliga | Pre Match

Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich have the opportunity to temporarily increase the gap to second-placed Bayer Leverkusen to nine points when they host Werder Bremen at Allianz Arena on Friday. With a commanding 51 points from their league campaign so far, the Bavarians remain firm favorites for another domestic crown. Their most recent league fixture was a thrilling 4-3 victory over relegation-threatened Holstein Kiel on February 1, a game in which Bayern were in total control until a late flurry of goals from their opponents somewhat flattered the final scoreline. Meanwhile, Werder Bremen secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Mainz 05 on January 31, a result that saw them climb to eighth in the standings with 30 points, just three adrift of fourth-placed RB Leipzig.

Despite the close scoreline against Holstein Kiel, Bayern were dominant for much of the contest, racing to a 4-0 lead before their opponents managed to find the back of the net in the 62nd minute. The game’s final minutes saw a lapse in defensive concentration, allowing Steven Skrzybski to score twice in stoppage time, but the Bavarians ultimately secured all three points. Manager Vincent Kompany may still be concerned by his team’s defensive vulnerabilities, given that Bayern have now conceded 10 goals in their last five outings across all competitions. However, their attacking prowess remains formidable, having netted an astonishing 62 goals in just 20 league matches, putting them on track to reach a tally of 105 goals this season, a figure not seen since the 1964-65 campaign.

Although Bayern sit comfortably at the summit of the Bundesliga table, Kompany has found himself under scrutiny for the team’s performances in European competitions. The German giants must now navigate a crucial playoff tie against Celtic to secure a place in the Champions League round of 16, adding extra weight to the coming weeks. Nonetheless, domestically, Bayern have been imperious. They have won seven of their last eight games, including six consecutive Bundesliga victories. The reverse fixture against Werder Bremen on September 21 ended in a resounding 5-0 triumph for the Bavarians, further underscoring their dominance over their upcoming opponents.

Bayern’s fortress at Allianz Arena remains a daunting challenge for any visitor. The club has suffered just one defeat in their last 20 home matches, boasting an impressive record of 17 wins and two draws. Their current streak of six consecutive home victories in all competitions further strengthens their status as overwhelming favorites against Werder Bremen. The visitors, despite their recent triumph over Mainz, arrive with concerns, particularly regarding disciplinary issues. Their previous match was marred by two red cards, with center-backs Niklas Stark and Marco Friedl both dismissed in second-half stoppage time after picking up second yellow cards. Additionally, manager Ole Werner also received his marching orders, further complicating preparations for Friday’s game.

Despite the suspensions, Werder Bremen will take some encouragement from their defensive performance in the win over Mainz, marking their first clean sheet in six matches. However, their defensive frailties remain evident, with 36 goals conceded in the Bundesliga this season, making them the joint-worst defensive side among the top 14 teams. Before their win against Mainz, Bremen endured a difficult run of form, failing to win in their previous four matches, which included two defeats and two draws. Their inconsistency on the road will also be a concern, with three losses, one draw, and two victories in their last six away fixtures.

In terms of team news, Bayern Munich recently secured a significant contract extension with left-back Alphonso Davies, putting an end to speculation about a potential summer move to Real Madrid. However, the Canadian international remains sidelined until March due to a hamstring injury. In his absence, Raphael Guerreiro is expected to deputize at left-back, likely partnering with center-backs Dayot Upamecano and Kim Min-jae, especially with Hiroki Ito also unavailable through injury. Up front, Bayern’s attacking lineup is expected to feature the prolific Harry Kane, who will be flanked by a talented supporting cast including Leroy Sane, Jamal Musiala, and Kingsley Coman.

Werder Bremen, meanwhile, are set to make adjustments to their defense following the suspensions of Stark and Friedl. A back three featuring Amos Pieper, Milos Veljkovic, and Anthony Jung is a likely configuration, as Julian Malatini remains ruled out. In midfield, Leonardo Bittencourt is not expected to return to full fitness until March, paving the way for Jens Stage and Senne Lynen to feature prominently. Up front, January loan signing Andre Silva could be handed a start, with Keke Topp sidelined due to an ankle injury. Silva’s presence will be crucial if Bremen hope to pose any attacking threat against the league leaders.

With Bayern’s attacking firepower and dominance at home, Werder Bremen face an uphill task in attempting to secure a result at Allianz Arena. However, the unpredictability of football always leaves room for surprises, and the visitors will be keen to capitalize on any lapses in concentration from their illustrious opponents. Still, given Bayern’s current form and the disparity in quality between the two squads, anything other than a comfortable home win would be considered a significant upset.