For Bayern Munich, the cup tie against Magdeburg will offer some respite between two difficult Bundesliga fixtures. They could clearly do with recharging their batteries and lifting their spirits. Why not play an expansive game with a high line and keep creating chances?
Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich have repeatedly dropped points since the international break. They let victory slip away in the local derby against Augsburg (2:2) — the same happened in two UEFA Champions League fixtures against Viking (3:3) and Arsenal (2:2). Away at Freiburg (3:1), Bayern did well to build a commanding lead by half-time, accumulating 2.90 xG, but without Vincent Kompany on the touchline and Joshua Kimmich in the holding midfield role, they are making plenty of mistakes.
Magdeburg
Magdeburg do not look like strong promotion contenders in this season's 2. Bundesliga, but their recent thrashing of Karlsruher (6:1) demonstrated the team's potential. They are among the most entertaining teams in the division, with over 2.5 goals in six of their nine league matches. In the previous round of the German Cup, Magdeburg gave Balingen no chance (4:0).
Bayern Munich vs Magdeburg Prediction
Magdeburg have already played four matches featuring 3+ goals since mid-August. Those figures will hardly trouble Bayern Munich at their own ground, of course, but the underdogs should certainly have chances in Munich. The match should go the hosts' way, but the teams are capable of taking the total over 3.5 goals well before the final whistle.
