Bayern Munich vs Cologne: Betting Odds & Prediction

Reigning Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich host relegation-threatened Cologne at the Allianz Arena on Saturday.

Bayern come into the game knowing any hopes of them retaining their title have been dashed, with leaders Leverkusen able to secure the Bundesliga crown against Werder Bremen the following day.

Meanwhile, Cologne are in dire need of points if they are to climb out of the relegation places, currently sitting four points adrift of safety heading into the fixture. Kick-off is set for 2:30pm UK time in Munich.

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Bayern Munich

The hosts have lost their last two outings in the Bundesliga, most recently surrendering a two goal lead to eventually lose 3-2 away at Heidenheim. Bayern also lost 2-0 at home to rivals Borussia Dortmund in 'Der Klassiker' at the end of last month, which was their second home defeat of the season.

Despite recent struggles, Bayern's forward line will surely prove too much for Cologne this weekend. The home side have averaged 3.36 goals scored at the Allianz, exceeding an already impressive expected goals (xG) tally of 2.43.

Bayern have also excelled defensively on home turf, conceding an average of just 0.79 goals in home fixtures so far. 43% of their games at home have ended in a clean sheet.

Cologne

Timo Schultz' side have been awful on the road, with an average of just 0.79 points taken from their 14 away fixtures so far. Hardly ample preparation when facing the side with the second-best home record in the division.

Their paltry 0.79 goals managed in away games is compounded by a worrying 1.79 conceded, with just 7% of Cologne's away matches ended in a clean sheet. They've also failed to score in 36% of matches on their travels.

Bayern have scored three or more goals in 64% of their home matches, raising more concern for a Cologne side who have shipped at least two in 43% of away fixtures so far.

Prediction

Bayern's league form has been disappointing this season, but they should still have far too much for this Cologne team. The away side have made habit of conceding, and come up against a Bayern team who have scored the most goals in the Bundesliga (80) heading into this weekend. Thomas Tuchel's side have also scored 17 in their last five, including two away at Arsenal in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Expect another rampant win for the home side this weekend.

OddsNow's Pick: Over 3.5+ home goals scored (19/10 @ StarSports)