Bayern Munich
Vincent Kompany did enough in his debut season to be deemed a success at Bayern Munich, as he regained the Bundesliga title from Bayer Leverkusen in year one.
Despite their domestic success, Bayern faltered in Europe, as missed opportunities against eventual finalists Inter led to a quarter-final exit.
The Club World Cup presents a glorious opportunity to Bayern to add another prestigious international trophy to the cabinet. Odds across betting apps in NZ suggest they have a great chance to go all the way in the competition.
Team News: Kompany will be without key defensive trio Alphonso Davies, Kim Min-jae, and Dayot Upamecano in this tournament.
Predicted Lineup: Neuer; Laimer, Stanisic, Palhinha, Guerreiro, Kimmich, Pavlovic, Olise, Goretzka, Gnabry, Kane.
Auckland City
Auckland City enter the tournament as the lowest-ranked team, yet they boast the most experience with 12 Club World Cup appearances. The Navy Blues booked their place in the competition as the most consistent team in Oceania over the past four years.
As the tournament’s only amateur side, Auckland City’s reality couldn’t be more different from the glitz and financial might of their high-profile opponents.
Behind the jerseys are barbers, storemen, toolmakers, sales reps, and real estate agents who have to maintain a regular job besides pursuing their football dream.
However, it’s important to remember that this team has punched well above its weight in the past. In the 2014 Club World Cup, they claimed third place by beating Mexico’s Cruz Azul 4-2 on penalties in Morocco.
Team News: Auckland City boss Paul Posa doesn’t have any injury concerns ahead of his team’s Club World Cup opener.
Predicted Lineup: Tracey; Ilich, Boxall, Gray, Lobo, Garriga, Ellis, Yoo, Foo, Gould, Kilkolly.