Bayern Munich’s hopes of winning the Bundesliga title might rely on defeating Borussia Dortmund in the big match called the “Klassiker.” But the real threat to Bayern’s title hopes comes from Bayer Leverkusen, who are currently leading by 10 points with just eight games left to play.
Bayern might have to play without their top scorer, Harry Kane, and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer due to injuries they picked up while playing for their national teams. Kane hurt his ankle in a game against Darmstadt, while Neuer tore a muscle in his thigh during training with the German national team.
Even if Kane and Neuer aren’t fit to play against Dortmund, Bayern could still perform well. In the last Klassiker, Bayern had concerns about their defense but still managed to win 4-0.
The problem with the Klassiker isn’t just that Bayern is second and Dortmund is fourth in the league standings. It’s also that recent matches between the two teams haven’t been very competitive.
Bayern has been dominant, scoring 23 goals in their last seven games against Dortmund in all competitions.
Dortmund hasn’t won a Bundesliga game at Bayern’s Allianz Arena since 2014. Overcoming this mental barrier will be crucial for Dortmund if they want to defeat Bayern.
Some Dortmund players might be extra motivated after being left out of the German national team. Meanwhile, Leverkusen could extend their lead at the top of the table before the Klassiker even begins.
Unless Dortmund can beat Bayern, they’ll miss a chance to put pressure on third-placed Stuttgart and risk being overtaken by Leipzig in the standings.
