Bayern Munich kicked off their Club World Cup journey with a commanding 10-0 win against Auckland City, but they are now up against a formidable opponent in tournament favorites Paris Saint-Germain at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Vincent Kompany’s side is accustomed to dominating their rivals, but they may need to adjust their tactics against PSG, who currently lead the tournament in possession with 71.9%.
Although PSG stumbled in the group stage with a 1-0 loss to Botafogo, they bounced back with impressive 4-0 victories over Atletico Madrid and Inter Miami.
Luis Enrique’s team appears to have gained confidence from their Champions League success and will be looking to break their recent poor record against Bayern, who have emerged victorious in their last four encounters.
Team news
Ousmane Dembele sat out the group stage matches due to a thigh injury but made a return as a substitute in the 4-0 win against Inter Miami. Bradley Barcola could be benched if Dembele is fit to reclaim his spot in the starting lineup.
Marquinhos and Fabian Ruiz were substituted during the round-of-16 match last Sunday but are expected to feature in the upcoming game.
Bayern Munich will be missing Leroy Sane, who completed a move to Galatasaray after his final appearance in the 4-2 victory over Flamengo last weekend.
Kingsley Coman is uncertain with a muscle strain, while Alphonso Davies (knee) and Hiroki Ito (foot) are still recovering from long-term injuries.
The stats
Paris Saint-Germain have scored two or more goals in eight of their last nine matches.
PSG have secured two 4-0 wins in their four Club World Cup games.
Luis Enrique's side have kept clean sheets in five of their last six fixtures.
PSG have scored within the first 20 minutes in four of their last six matches.
Twelve out of Bayern Munich’s last 14 games have seen over 2.5 goals.
Prediction
Paris Saint-Germain are eager to add another title to their collection and are likely to progress to the semifinals of the Club World Cup by defeating Bayern Munich.
A high-intensity battle is expected as both teams prioritize attacking play over defense.
However, Bayern's defensive vulnerabilities were exposed in the Champions League, where they conceded four goals across two legs against Inter. This could leave them open against PSG, who are considered one of the strongest teams in the tournament.
PSG dominated Inter in the Champions League final and show no signs of slowing down their momentum.
With key player Ousmane Dembele back from injury, PSG look well-equipped to make further progress in the competition.