Bayern to turn up heat on Leverkusen

Berlin – If Bayern Munich want to turn up the heat on leaders Bayer Leverkusen ahead of next week’s blockbuster clash, Thomas Tuchel’s (right) men will need to get past bogey side Borussia Moenchengladbach today.

Bayern are just two points behind Xabi Alonso’s league leaders, with the sides facing off next weekend (10 February) in a match with huge title ramifications.

Today however, Bayern host Gladbach, the only side in Germany to have given them consistent problems recently.

Bayern have only won one of their past six against Gladbach, a run which includes a 5-0 German Cup thrashing in 2021.

Tuchel’s side broke the streak with a 2-1 victory earlier in the season at Borussia Park but needed a late goal from Mathys Tel to get across the line.

Gladbach may be 12th in the league after an inconsistent campaign, but form has meant little for a side who always seem to save their best for the big occasion.

Bayern also have to contend with a long injury list, including Kingsley Coman, Serge Gnabry, Joshua Kimmich, Dayot Upamecano and Konrad Laimer, while Kim Min-jae is away on Asian Cup duty.

Gladbach come into the game with the wind in their sails after a strong start to 2024.

They beat third-placed Stuttgart 3-1 and last Saturday held Leverkusen to a 0-0 draw, becoming just the fourth team in any competition this season to take points off Alonso’s barnstorming side.

Coach Gerardo Seoane said Thursday his team would “need to perform above our limits in all areas” to get a result in Munich, particularly in keeping tabs on star striker Harry Kane, who has 23 goals in 19 league games.

“(He) doesn’t need a lot of chances to score. We know that the ball will end up in the net if we give him too many opportunities.

“It is difficult to control him 100% percent.”

Seoane was not only concerned about the England captain’s output in front of goal.

“He is extremely important for the team, as an anchor and a fulcrum.”

Gladbach defender Joe Scally told AFP that his side would make the trip to the Bavarian capital without fear.

“Playing Munich is always the toughest game of the year.

“It’s going to be a very difficult task, but we’re full of confidence after the goalless draw in Leverkusen,” said Scally. –