Bayern Munich Aim to Shake Off Leverkusen Curse in Champions League Round of 16
Despite recent setbacks against Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich remain confident ahead of their Champions League round of 16 clash.
Davies Optimistic About Overturning Past Struggles
"We know it’s been a while since we last beat them," said defender Alphonso Davies. "But I’m optimistic that we’ll be able to turn things around this time."
Davies, who scored the late equalizer in the playoff return leg against Celtic Glasgow, will be crucial in Bayern’s quest to break their Leverkusen jinx.
Bundesliga’s Top Two to Face Off
The Bundesliga leaders will host the first leg in early March, with the return fixture in Leverkusen a week later.
"We’re facing the two best German teams at the moment," said sporting director Max Eberl. "They’ve given fans some thrilling duels this season."
Eberl Expects a Tough Battle
"We saw how difficult it will be," Eberl continued. "We’ll need to give everything we have to get through."
In the event of a quarterfinal appearance, Bayern could face Inter Milan or Feyenoord Rotterdam.
Freund Cautions Against Complacency
"Bayern Munich against Bayer Leverkusen: two teams who know each other very well," said sporting director Christoph Freund. "In the Champions League, you have to take it game by game, and that’s exactly how we’re approaching this task."
Laimer Relishes Exciting Draw
Defensive midfielder Konrad Laimer expressed his excitement about the "thrilling draw."
Recent Results Hold Little Significance
Despite Leverkusen’s unbeaten record against Bayern in their last six matches, Bayern remain undeterred.
"The past doesn’t matter – everyone has to reach their performance limit because our goal is clear: to advance to the next round," said CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen.
Leverkusen’s Alonso Facing Former Club
Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso will be looking to extend his impressive unbeaten run against his former club.
Dreesen Focused on Present
"Another chapter in this intense season: Bayern Munich against Leverkusen – for the fourth and fifth time," Dreesen said. "Of course, many fans and I would have preferred an international duel in the Champions League, but that makes no difference to our task."
Bayern Aim to Exorcise Demons
Despite their recent struggles, Bayern Munich will be determined to shake off their psychological barrier against Leverkusen and secure a place in the quarterfinals.
Match Details
- First leg: Bayern Munich vs. Bayer Leverkusen (early March)
- Return leg: Bayer Leverkusen vs. Bayern Munich (one week later)
- Potential quarterfinal opponents: Inter Milan or Feyenoord Rotterdam (April 8/9 and 15/16)
