The 184th edition of the Oktobertfest begins on Saturday, and visitors from all over the world will flock to Munich. 75,000 of them will stop by the Allianz Arena before taking to the Theresienwiese as FC Bayern entertain FSV Mainz (live in English from 15.30 CEST on our Ticker and Web Radio) on Bundesliga Matchday 4.
The Oktoberfest record is stacked in favour of the German record champions. Apart from a draw against Köln last season the Bavarians have won all of their Bundesliga home matches during the Oktoberfest over the last six years, and FCB are looking to build on their impressive record. However, Bayern's last home defeat during the Wiesn period dates back to 2010 - against Mainz.
"We've often had problems against Mainz, we've definitely been warned," commented Manuel Neuer before the encounter with the men from Rhineland-Palatinate. After last week's 2-0 defeat to Hoffenheim Carlo Ancelotti's troops aim to return to winning ways. In case of a victory over Mainz Bayern might top the table after the weekend, depending on other results.
Ancelotti announces rotation
"We aren't yet at the top but I'm certain we will be soon," a confident Ancelotti said. "We'll have to attack aggressively and try to create plenty of chances. We'll need full conviciton and high pace, and we'll have to be alert from the off," said Arjen Robben, demanding "full throttle" against Mainz.
Apart from the two left-backs David Alaba and Juan Bernat, Carlo Ancelotti has the entire squad at his disposal. The Italian announced a number of changes between the Champion League encounter with RSC Anderlecht and next Tuesday's match against Schalke 04. Mats Hummels, who was awarded a breather, and Arturo Vidal, who served a one-match ban against Anderlecht, could return to the starting line-up.
After two league defeats in a row the visitors were victorious last weekend, beating Bayer Leverkusen 3-1, and Sandro Schwarz's troops are looking to build on the win. "Sandro Schwarz will prepare us optimally for our opponents. Besides, we'll all be extremely motivated. After all, we're taking on the best team in Germany and one of the best in the world," said veteran Mainz keeper René Adler.
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