Stuttgart enter this top match in sixth place and, despite the 2–1 defeat against HSV, still show solid overall form. Seven changes compared to the 4–0 in the Europa League revealed the sensitive balance within the team, though they were based on tactical considerations. The “B-team” used by Sebastian Hoeneß against HSV was defensively stable but lacked attacking threat. After the first setback, VfB found hardly any solutions against deep-defending Hamburg. The absence of defender Jaquez was also noticeable.
Bayern, meanwhile, remain dominant in both the Bundesliga and the Champions League. Recently, however, the team have shown a recurring pattern of weak, unfocused starts. Against St Pauli, Freiburg and Union, the record champions struggled early on and only later asserted their ball control and individual class. Their first Champions League defeat to Arsenal also showed that the Munich side are not untouchable this season. With rotations, Kompany is now likely to work on tactical variations within the team and aim to address the current issues.
Forecast: Stuttgart will look to attack Bayern’s vulnerability in the opening phase and press with courage. But over 90 minutes, Bayern’s greater depth, experience and individual quality still make them favourites – although with a clear warning not to fall asleep at the start once again.