Bayern Munich is set to face Eintracht Frankfurt at the iconic Allianz Arena on February 23, 2025, with significant stakes involved for both teams. Heading to the match, the focus is particularly on the fitness of star striker Harry Kane, who has been dealing with calf issues. Manager Vincent Kompany has been tight-lipped about Kane's status, which adds intrigue to the clash.
After suffering from injuries earlier this week during their match against Celtic, where he played only the first half, Kane's participation remains uncertain. Although he returned to training just before this key meeting, Kompany will make a late call on whether he can take to the field from the start.
Meanwhile, Eintracht Frankfurt is coming off their own impressive performance, having recently defeated Holstein Kiel 3-1, bringing hope and momentum as they seek to solidify their third-place position. With the Bundesliga title race heating up, Frankfurt aims to close the gap on Bayer Leverkusen, who trails Bayern Munich by five points.
Bayern Munich, currently sitting at the top of the table, has found themselves facing increased pressure after recent draws against both Wolfsburg and Bayern Leverkusen. Prior to these setbacks, they enjoyed seven consecutive victories and looked set to distance themselves from their rivals. The urgency to secure three points against Frankfurt has never been more apparent, especially with Leverkusen breathing down their neck.
Komapany’s tactical formation is anticipated to be the popular 4-2-3-1, which has served them well throughout the season, with midfielder Joshua Kimmich and defender Dayot Upamecano likely at the heart of their defense. If Kane cannot start, the likes of Thomas Müller or Serge Gnabry may step up to the plate, indicating Bayern's depth.
"We are playing against the team currently in third place. They have performed very well this season," commented Kompany, reflecting on the threat posed by Frankfurt. On the other hand, Eintracht’s coach Dino Toppmoller understands the stakes involved. “A victory would mean getting closer to Bayer Leverkusen,” he remarked, indicating his team’s ambition to capitalize on any lapse from Bayern.
Bayern’s potential starting lineup could see Manuel Neuer return to goal, with Laimer and Upamecano set to anchor the defense. The midfield will likely be backed by Kimmich and Pavelic, with the wings occupied by Leroy Sané and possibly Kingsley Coman, should Kane miss out.
For Frankfurt, Toppmoller is expected to deploy a 3-4-2-1 formation with Trapp as goalkeeper, supported by Collins, Tuta, and Theate at the back. The midfield will feature Kristensen and Hojlund, with Mario Gotze and Uzun playing pivotal roles as attacking midfielders, and the formidable Ekitike leading the frontline.
This match not only tests Bayern’s title aspirations but also serves as a gauge for Eintracht’s ambition to be taken seriously as championship contenders. With only three points separating Frankfurt from Freiburg, this match provides them with the opportunity to solidify their top-three standing.
Fans will be gripped as the teams prepare for what is expected to be a high-stakes encounter filled with intensity. The competition will be broadcasted live on Sky Sport Max and available for streaming through Sky Go and Now, ensuring fans won't miss one moment of this pivotal Bundesliga matchup.
With everything on the line, the question looms: will Bayern Munich pull through against Eintracht Frankfurt and continue their dominance, or will they falter and allow their rivals to spring back? All eyes will be on the Allianz Arena come match day, as the thrill of the Bundesliga captivates the football world once again.