Preview: Can Manchester United spring a surprise?
In 2010, the situation was reversed. United had won the “cup with the big ears” in 2008. They had reached the final in 2009, losing out to Pep’s Barcelona. Bayern had not been to the semifinal stage of Europe’s premier competition since 2001, suffering many quarterfinal defeats since. After winning the first leg in injury time, 2-1, thanks to Ivica Olic, Bayern came into Old Trafford looking to defend their lead. Not many said they would be able to do so.
Indeed, Bayern conceded three times within the first half but pulled one back through Ivica Olic. A red card to Rafael in the second half opened the game up more for Bayern. A wonderful strike from Arjen Robben, perhaps one of the best in the history of the UEFA Champions League, sent Bayern through to the semifinals on the away goals rule.
This season, the roles are completely reversed. United is coming into this match on the back of a poor season which has seen plenty of unrest behind the scenes. Sir Alex’s absence has caused bigger problems than expected. They will be playing a Bayern side which won five trophies in 2013 and has already secured the domestic league. Pep Guardiola’s Bayern is breaking the records domestically which Jupp Heynckes’ Bayern set last season.
A weekend draw against Hoffenheim nonetheless highlighted Bayern’s defensive problems. They will be without Thiago Alcantara coming into this one. Holger Badstuber is continuing his recovery behind the scenes. Dante is suspended; this is a huge headache for Guardiola as he is really the heart of Bayern’s defense. United will be without the suspended Patrice Evra and the ineligible Juan Mata. Robin Van Persie is out of this one as well. Antonio Valencia, Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling are all doubtful.
Will Bayern win this match? Or will United produce a fantastic performance against the holders?
Where to watch the match: Live Streams, Live Scores, Start Times, TV Channels
Watch Manchester United FC vs Bayern München live on Tuesday, April 1, 2014:
In Canada at 14:45 ET on Sportsnet East, Sportsnet West, Sportsnet Pacific, Sportsnet Ontario, Sportsnet World Online
In the UK at 19:45 BST on BBC Radio 5 Live, ITV Live Player, ITV 1, STV Scotland, UTV
In the USA at 14:45 ET on Fox Sports GO, Fox Sports 1 USA, Directv, SiriusXM FC, Fox Soccer 2Go
In Germany, viewers can tune into Sky Go amongst other networks to watch the match.
For the complete TV listings and live scores upon kick-off, visit the United-Bayern match page.
