7M - Match Preview: Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich - High-Stakes Der Klassiker at Signal Iduna Park

Bayern Munich have the opportunity to deliver a knockout blow to Borussia Dortmund's title aspirations this Saturday as they travel to the Signal Iduna Park for the second Der Klassiker of the season. With an eight-point lead at the top of the Bundesliga, Vincent Kompany’s side aims to extend their dominance, while Niko Kovac’s BVB must secure a victory to keep the race alive.

The Context and Form

Borussia Dortmund enter this crucial fixture following a disappointing week. After a 2-2 draw with RB Leipzig, the "Black and Yellow" suffered a crushing 4-1 defeat to Atalanta, ending their Champions League journey. Despite these setbacks, Dortmund remain a formidable force at home, boasting a 16-match unbeaten streak in the league and a defensive record at Signal Iduna Park that is second to none.

Bayern Munich, on the other hand, are riding a four-match winning streak, most recently edging out Eintracht Frankfurt. While their attacking output has been historic—on pace to break the league's all-time scoring record—defensive vulnerabilities have surfaced lately, with ten goals conceded in their last eight league outings.

Team News

Borussia Dortmund: The hosts are facing a defensive crisis with Emre Can and Niklas Sule sidelined due to injury. Ramy Bensebaini is expected to step into a back three alongside Waldemar Anton and Nico Schlotterbeck. Up front, Serhou Guirassy remains the primary threat, supported by the creative duo of Julian Brandt and Karim Adeyemi.

Bayern Munich: The major blow for the visitors is the absence of Alphonso Davies, who is set for several weeks on the sidelines. Josip Stanisic is likely to fill the void at left-back. Harry Kane continues to lead the line, supported by a potent attacking trio of Michael Olise, Jamal Musiala, and Luis Diaz.

Predicted Starting Lineups

Borussia Dortmund (3-4-2-1):
Kobel; Anton, Schlotterbeck, Bensebaini; Couto, Bellingham, Nmecha, Svensson; Adeyemi, Brandt; Guirassy

Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1):
Neuer; Laimer, Upamecano, Tah, Stanisic; Kimmich, Pavlovic; Olise, Musiala, Diaz; Kane

Match Verdict: Borussia Dortmund 2-2 Bayern Munich

While Dortmund’s recent form has dipped, their home advantage is significant, and Der Klassiker historically levels the playing field. Bayern’s offensive firepower is unrivaled, but their defensive lapses suggest Dortmund will find opportunities to score. We expect a high-intensity, high-scoring draw that leaves the title race hanging by a thread.