Bayern receive the French team on a high, after winning against Nuremberg in the Bundesliga they are just 3 points away from leaders Dortmund, and are within reach of winning the treble this year - Champions, Bundesliga and Germany's DFB Pokal. They also have the good news that Dutch international Arjen Robben has signed a new contract with Bayern until 2015.
Marseille, who were hoping to put an end to their horrible run this season, they haven't had a victory since their first leg against Inter Milan. They are currently ninth in the league, 16 points away from Champions League positions. The French team didn't play over the weekend, as their match had been postponed until next Wednesday, they are playing against leaders Montpellier, who are 20 points in front of them.
With little chance of reaching the Champions League next year need to sore at least to goals to level the playing field. Marseilles trainer Didier Deschamps says "for us, this is a historic chance". I didn't have to talk much, as everyone knows what is at stake". He continued "Bayern are closer to the semi finals, but we have to believe in ourselves once we're in the pitch". He believes in his team, despite last week's match "We must have a strong mentality, we have high quality players. We must enjoy the moment despite what happened in the first leg".
Bayern, who not so long ago suffered a loss of form, have managed to come back from that, two of their most recent victories were by 6 goals (7-1 and 6-0) and they have Mario Gomez, top goal scorer of the Bundesliga.
If all the teams left want to play in the final, Bayern want it that extra bit more, as the final is going to be played in their own stadium.
The good news for Deschamps is that first choice goalkeeper Steve Mandanda - who was sent off against Inter, will be available to play. Souleymane Diawara, injured in the first leg and Alou Diawara, suspended, will not be available for tonight's game.
Bayern's midfielder Schweinsteiger will miss out on today's game as he saw his third yellow card in an unnecessary foul aver Marseille's captain Mathieu Valbuena.
It has been almost 10 years since Marseille qualified for the Champions League, year in which they won it, Bayern however are looking to win their fifth European title.
Champions League last five games:
- Olympique Marseille : L W W L L
- Bayern Munich : W L L W W
Source: DSG
