The Daily Star Ireland
The Allianz Arena is set to host one of the standout fixtures of this season’s Champions League group stage, as six-time winners Bayern Munich face off against two-time champions Chelsea on Thursday night. Both sides enter the clash with different narratives but equally high expectations, setting the stage for a heavyweight encounter.
Bayern Munich Seeking Redemption
Bayern Munich, eliminated in the quarter-finals last season by Inter Milan, are determined to reclaim their dominance on the European stage. Under Vincent Kompany, the Bavarians have started the 2025/26 campaign in strong form. They lifted the German Super Cup in August with a 2-1 victory over Stuttgart and have since maintained a perfect record across all competitions.
In the Bundesliga, Bayern announced their intent with a 6-0 demolition of RB Leipzig on opening day. While they were briefly tested in a nervy 3-2 win over Augsburg, their momentum remains intact. Last weekend’s high-profile clash against Hamburg further underlined their consistency, though their toughest tests are yet to come in Europe.
Star striker Harry Kane has already hit the ground running, notching six goals and two assists across competitions. New signing Luis Díaz, acquired from Liverpool, has also impressed, contributing two goals and two assists in his first Bundesliga appearances. However, injuries have hit the squad: Alphonso Davies, Tom Bischof, and Jamal Musiala—the latter sidelined long-term following an injury in the FIFA Club World Cup—are all unavailable. Forward Liam Delap, brought in from Ipswich, is also out until November with a hamstring problem.
Despite these setbacks, Bayern’s depth remains formidable. Jonathan Tah, signed from Bayer Leverkusen, has slotted into the defense, while veterans like Manuel Neuer and Joshua Kimmich continue to anchor the team.
Chelsea Confident After Strong Start
Chelsea arrive in Munich with their own rich European pedigree. Twice winners of the Champions League—famously against Bayern in 2012 and Manchester City in 2021—the Blues are also the inaugural holders of the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, a title that adds to their growing reputation.
Under new management, Chelsea have made a bright start to the Premier League season, recording emphatic victories over West Ham (5-1) and Fulham (2-0) before the international break. However, their push for a third consecutive league win faltered last weekend, as they were held to a draw at Brentford.
Injuries have complicated their preparations. Benoît Badiashile, Levi Colwill, and midfielder Romeo Lavia are all sidelined, while Portuguese youngster Essugo has undergone surgery. Adding to their woes, Mykhailo Mudryk remains suspended for a doping violation. On a positive note, prolific attacker Cole Palmer—who netted 18 goals last season—may return to the squad after injury.
Chelsea’s summer signing Facundo Buonanotte had hoped to fulfill his dream of playing Champions League football but was left off the squad registration list. The Blues will instead look to experienced figures like Raheem Sterling, Enzo Fernández, and Thiago Silva to lead them against one of Europe’s most intimidating home sides.
Key Tactical Battles
The match could hinge on Chelsea’s ability to withstand Bayern’s relentless attacking pressure. With Kane and Díaz in peak form, the Bavarians will look to stretch Chelsea’s depleted backline. In midfield, the duel between Kimmich and Enzo Fernández may dictate the tempo.
For Chelsea, the return of Palmer could provide the creative spark needed to unlock Bayern’s defense. Yet their poor away form—11 losses in their last 13 matches on the road in Europe—is a major concern heading into a stadium where Bayern have won 10 of their last 13 home Champions League games.
Prediction
Given Bayern’s blistering form, home advantage, and Chelsea’s struggles away from Stamford Bridge, the odds heavily favor the German champions. Chelsea have the pedigree to trouble Bayern on their day, but their defensive absentees and inconsistency suggest an uphill battle.
Prediction: Bayern Munich 3 – 1 Chelsea
