In the ongoing Club World Cup tournament, Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich are set to clash with the semi-professional team Auckland City FC this Sunday. This fixture likely represents the widest disparity in team caliber in the entire competition, pitting the German champions against the OFC champions. Auckland City FC has prior experience in the CWC, yet the challenge of facing a formidable opponent like Bayern Munich from the outset is immense, especially considering their players often balance participation with their regular jobs.
Notably, star striker Harry Kane, one of Europe`s top scorers, commands an annual salary of €25 million, exceeding the total payroll for the entire Auckland City squad by over five times. While realistic about their prospects, the New Zealand side is determined to compete fiercely and represent their country with pride.
Here are storylines, how you can watch the match and more:
How to watch Bayern Munich vs. Auckland City FC, odds
- Date: Sunday, June 15 | Time: 12 p.m. ET
- Location: TQL Stadium — Cincinnati, Ohio
- Live stream: Watch on DAZN
- Odds: Bayern Munich -12500; Draw +2100; Auckland City FC +5000
Player to watch
Jonathan Tah, Bayern Munich: The recent signing from Bayer Leverkusen is expected to play a crucial role in solidifying Bayern`s defense, an area identified as a weakness last season. The Club World Cup offers Tah a valuable opportunity to integrate with his new teammates and adapt before the Bundesliga campaign commences. His primary objective will be contributing to clean sheets as Bayern aims to win the tournament. While attention often falls on Bayern`s attacking prowess, a settled defense with Tah`s influence could make them even more formidable.
Storyline to watch
Thomas Muller`s swan song: This tournament marks the potential conclusion of an illustrious 25-year tenure for Thomas Muller at Bayern Munich. Winning the Club World Cup would provide a fitting farewell to a club legend. Muller has made 751 appearances for Bayern and accumulated 34 trophies. Securing a 35th title is a distinct possibility for the team, and they are strong contenders to achieve it.
Prediction
Auckland City FC holds the record for most Club World Cup appearances (11), but despite their three wins in 17 previous matches, securing a victory against Bayern is highly improbable. Expect Harry Kane, the Bundesliga`s top scorer with 26 goals, to make an immediate impact and potentially score a hat-trick in his first CWC match. Prediction: Bayern Munich 4, Auckland City FC 0
