Bayern Munich Faces Chelsea in Champions League Group Stage Opener
MUNICH – Bayern Munich hosts Chelsea tonight in their frist Champions League group stage match, marking their first competitive fixture in five years. The encounter pits two European powerhouses against each other as they begin their quest for continental glory, with Bayern entering as clear favorites according to betting odds.
This match carries notable weight as both teams aim to establish early dominance in a challenging group. A strong start is crucial for securing qualification to the knockout stages, and a win for either side will provide a valuable psychological boost. The game also presents a reunion of sorts, featuring several players familiar with the Premier League landscape.
According to odds from SOL, Bayern Munich is favored with a 60.6% probability of victory, while Chelsea’s chances are estimated at 22.7%. A draw is currently priced at 23.1%.
Chelsea will be wary of Bayern’s potent attack, spearheaded by Harry Kane, Luis Díaz, and Michael Olise. Bayern manager Thomas Kompany is without Jamal Musiala, hiroki Ito, Alphonso Davies, and Raphael Guerreiro due to injury. Kompany’s predicted starting XI is: New (GK), Laimer, Upamecano, Tah, Stanisic, Pavlovic, Kimmich, Olise, Gnabry, Day, Kane.
Chelsea is expected to welcome Cole Palmer back into the starting lineup after an impressive substitute appearance over the weekend. Manager Enzo maresca is dealing with injuries to Estevao, Liam Delap, Romeo lavia, Dario Essugo, and Benoit Badiashile. Chelsea’s predicted lineup is: Sánchez (GK),James,Fofana,Chalobah,cucurella,Caicedo,Fernández,Neto,Palmer,Garnacho,Pedro.
The teams last met in 2020, with Bayern winning both legs of their Champions League tie 3-0 at Stamford Bridge and in a closed-door match at the Allianz Arena.
Recent Results:
Bayern Munich:
* Bayern Munich 5-0 Hamburger
* Augsburg 2-3 Bayern Munich
* Borussia Mönchengladbach 2-3 Bayern Munich
* Bayern Munich 6-0 RB Leipzig
* stuttgart 1-2 Bayern Munich
Chelsea:
* Brentford 2-2 Chelsea
* Chelsea 2-0 Fulham
* West Ham 1-5 Chelsea
* Chelsea 0-0 Crystal Palace
* Chelsea 4-1 AC Milan
