Match Preview: Barca vs Bayern at 02:00 on October 24 for the 2024/25 Champions League Qualifying Round 3
Form Analysis: Barca vs Bayern
In the last decade, Bayern Munich has been the biggest nemesis for Barcelona in European competitions. Since 2015, Barca has faced Bayern 6 times without a single victory, suffering four defeats by three goals or more. The heaviest loss was a staggering 8-2 defeat in the Champions League, where they were thoroughly dominated at home.
These consecutive defeats have severely impacted Barca’s pride, a club that has won the C1/Champions League five times. To break this curse, Barca needs not only high form but also a host of favorable factors.
One significant advantage for Barca is Bayern’s inconsistency. Despite their recent 4-0 victory over Stuttgart, Bayern has only won once in their last four matches. Additionally, Bayern has struggled away from home, with a streak of four winless matches in the Champions League, including three losses. In contrast, Barca has won all five of their recent home matches.
Moreover, Barcelona has the advantage of two “insiders”: new coach Hansi Flick and striker Robert Lewandowski, who has scored 14 goals in 12 matches this season. With their knowledge of Bayern and impressive form, Barca is expected to pose a significant challenge.
Latest Squad Information: Barca vs Bayern
Barcelona will be without Ronald Araujo, Ferran Torres, Andreas Christensen, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Marc Bernal due to injuries. Bayern will also miss Jamal Musiala, Josip Stanisic, Hiroki Ito, and Sacha Boey.
Projected Lineups:
- Barcelona (4-3-3): Pena; Kounde, Cubarsi, I Martinez, Balde; Casado, E Garcia, Pedri; Yamal, Lewandowski, Raphinha.
- Bayern (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Kimmich, Dier, Kim, Davies; Pavlovic, Palhinha; Gnabry, Muller, Olise; Kane.
After numerous defeats to Bayern, Barcelona is sure to have strong motivation to avenge their losses. They are capable of achieving this advantage at home, especially with Lewandowski’s sharpness.