Bayern Munich vs CSKA Moscow: Five Key Battles

Defending European champions Bayern Munich kick start their defence of the coveted trophy against Russian club CSKA Moscow. The Bavarian side have made a slightly underwhelming start to the new season but they have a quality squad and are managed by an excellent manager, so count them out of the match at your own risk.

Both teams are missing certain key players. While Pep Guardiola will be without new recruits Thiago Alcantara and Mario Gotze as well as Javi Martinez, CSKA will be missing star striker Seydou Doumbia, Alan Dzagoev, Zoran Tosic, Rasmus Elm, Mario Fernandes and Mark Gonzalez. Nevertheless, let’s look at some of the key battles within the game that might have an impact on the result:

Ahmed Musa vs David Alaba

David Alaba

Ahmed Musa will no doubt be CSKA’s key player down the right, which is where he is usually deployed although, he can play almost anywhere in the attacking third. He has already sounded the war bells by claiming he is ‘sure’ that CSKA will beat Bayern and will no doubt be fired up for the occasion. It will be up to talented young left-back Alaba to ensure the Nigerian forward doesn’t cause too many problems. This duel between the two promising youngsters will no doubt be interesting to watch.