The second leg against Paris Saint-Germain presents Vincent Kompany with a tricky task. After the spectacular 4:5 in the first leg, it’s not just about tactics – it’s also about finding the right balance between freshness, workload and quality
At first glance, the freshness factor seems to be in PSG’s favor, as coach Luis Enrique has been able to rest his key players recently, while Kompany has been able to rotate much less in recent weeks
However, this is also an opportunity for FC Bayern. While Paris have used many of their stars in measured fashion, Munich have developed an enormous level of basic fitness, as the first leg showed: Bayern were the more active team even in the closing stages and pressed for an equaliser
Jokers become decisive
Kompany’s substitutes could once again be a key factor for him: the impact that players like Kane, Olise and Musiala can have off the bench was already clear in Mainz and against Heidenheim
Especially with a view to possible extra time, these „late weapons“ could become a decisive advantage. If the game goes beyond 90 minutes, there is much to be said for Bayern’s physical condition
In terms of personnel, there is at least some relief. Tom Bischof was back in the squad recently and could help as a flexible option. There is also hope for Lennart Karl, at least for a short spell
Although neither of them will play a major role, additional options from the bench can be extremely valuable, especially in an intense game
Offensively, it’s all down to the stars
In attack, on the other hand, there are hardly any alternatives, with the responsibility clearly resting on the shoulders of Harry Kane, Michael Olise and Luis Díaz
This trio must once again make the difference – both in terms of efficiency and teamwork
Focus on defensive decisions
The question of who will play on the left-hand side of defence will be an exciting one: will Kompany rely directly on the pace of Alphonso Davies or will he only bring him on as the game progresses?
The options in central defense are also limited, and Minjae Kim could be brought in as a quick alternative for the final phase to react to potential counter-attacking situations
Should Bayern equalize the first leg result, the game could go into extra time – a scenario that could well play into Munich’s hands
The combination of fitness, mentality and the ability to generate pressure late in the game could then make the difference.