Bayern go into BVB showdown in pole position

FC Bayern head into the top-of-the-table clash at Dortmund as league leaders! The Reds defended their pole position in the Bundesliga thanks to a hard-fought 1-0 win against Arminia Bielefeld on Saturday evening, keeping them one point in front of second-placed BVB ahead of next Saturday’s showdown (kick-off 18:30 CET).

“It was important to get the three points here and stay top,” said captain Manuel Neuer after the success against Bielefeld. “We’re looking forward to the match against Dortmund, it’s another top-of-the-table clash. It’s also a sign when you’re on top in games like this. As always, there’s a lot at stake – there’s prestige and now we’re also next to each other in the table. We want to stay in front,” continued the 35-year-old.

Bayern have won each of their last six meetings with BVB (four in the Bundesliga and two in the DFL Supercup). Their last two league visits to Dortmund ended in narrow wins (1-0 and 3-2), a run that the Munich men will be aiming to extend next Saturday along with their lead at the top. “Our anticipation ahead of Der Klassiker is always enormous. The victory was enormously important for us to be able to go into the game with our heads held high,” commented Serge Gnabry, who returned to the squad against Bielefeld.

After several intense weeks with midweek fixtures, FCB now have a whole week of preparation in training. “Basically you’re always ready for big games at Bayern. I’m pleased that we get to train properly now,” described coach Julian Nagelsmann, who gave a slight insight into his training work. “You have to go about it very intelligently and can’t overdo it because we need the necessary freshness at the weekend. We’ll do a few things and travel to Dortmund very well prepared.” Then, it’s all about staying in pole position.

Here are four facts on the home win against Bielefeld: