Bayern’s dominant possession game, averaging an imposing 71%, naturally translates into frequent corner opportunities. At home, their average rises to a staggering 7.6 corners per game, a testament to their relentless attacking intent. This season, they’ve won 6 or more corners in all but 2 of their home fixtures. Leipzig, on the other hand, have shown a vulnerability to conceding corners, with an average of 6.09 in away matches. Bayern’s dominance in recent head-to-head encounters at the Allianz Arena further supports this prediction, having earned 6 or more corners in their last 3 meetings with Leipzig.

With Harry Kane, Serge Gnabry, and Kingsley Coman sidelined, the creative burden on Bayern’s attacking players has increased. Michael Olise has stepped up admirably, consistently posing a threat. Averaging 0.95 shots on target per game, Olise has hit the target in 5 of his last 8 starts, underlining his growing influence. Expect him to be involved in Bayern’s attacking phases and to test Leipzig’s goalkeeper at least once.

Leipzig’s left-sided attack, spearheaded by Lois Openda and Antonio Nusa, presents a formidable challenge. Combined, they have drawn 19 fouls in their last 5 games, a statistic that points directly at Laimer’s defensive responsibilities. The Austrian defender has shown a tendency for cynical play, committing 2 or more fouls in 6 of his last 8starts. Given the stakes of this game, it is highly likely Laimer will be forced into multiple challenges.

Lois Openda is the focal point of Leipzig’s attack, with an impressive average of 3 shots per game and a clinical accuracy of hitting the target in half of those attempts. This precision has been especially evident in recent weeks, with Openda registering a shot on target in each of his last 5 matches. His ability to find space and test goalkeepers makes him a near-certainty to trouble Bayern’s backline at least once.

In the absence of key attacking players, the onus has fallen on Jamal Musiala to lead Bayern’s offensive efforts. The young prodigy has thrived under the increased responsibility, contributing 13 goals and 4 assists this season. Musiala has found the back of the net in 4 of his last 5 appearances and also provided an assist in his last 2 outings. His creative influence is expected to shine once again against Leipzig.

Leroy Sané’s extended playing time due to injuries has revealed his all-round capabilities, including his involvement in defensive situations. While his average foul count sits at 0.5 per game, it rises to nearly 1 when he plays the full 90 minutes. Against Leipzig’s right-sided threats, including Benjamin Henrichs and Benjamin Sesko, who have drawn 8 fouls in their last 3 games, Sané is likely to concede at least 1 foul in his defensive efforts.

With Bayern Munich’s relentless attacking threat, even in the face of key injuries, defensive responsibilities for players like Benjamin Henrichs will be significantly heightened.

While his season average stands at a modest 0.87 fouls per game, his tendency for cynicism has increased under pressure, evident in recent performances. Henrichs has committed 2 or more fouls in 3 of his last 5 outings, reflecting a notable uptick in his defensive aggressiveness.

Whether deployed on the right or left, Henrichs will face considerable challenges from Bayern’s dynamic wide players, who have drawn a combined 20 fouls in their last 2 matches (11 from the right and 9 from the left). This intense pressure is likely to further test Henrichs’ discipline in this high-stakes clash.

As Bayern’s most carded player, Dayot Upamecano has shown a tendency to attract bookings in high-pressure situations. With 6 yellow cards already this season, the French defender’s disciplinary record has come under scrutiny, especially in big matches. Against Leipzig’s potent attacking duo of Openda and Sesko, Upamecano is likely to face significant challenges. His aggressive style, coupled with the stakes of this encounter, makes a booking for the centre-back a realistic outcome.