The 2025-26 edition of the UEFA Champions League reaches a decisive point as Bayern Munich prepare to host Sporting CP in Matchday 6. With both clubs still vying for a favorable finish in the group stage, expectations and pressure are high at the Allianz Arena.
For Bayern, injuries and suspensions have reshaped their options — forcing manager Vincent Kompany to adjust his usual plans. Nonetheless, the Bavarians remain heavy favorites thanks to their depth and recent form.
Sporting CP arrive in Munich with a mix of confidence and concern. While the Portuguese side have shown resilience in recent Champions League fixtures, absences among key attackers limit their offensive firepower.
Bayern Munich’s confirmed lineup
Bayern will deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation. Manuel Neuer will guard the net, with a back four of Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, Josip Stanisic, and Konrad Laimer. Joshua Kimmich and Aleksandar Pavlovic will anchor midfield, while Michael Olise, Karl, and Serge Gnabry will provide creativity behind Harry Kane leading the attack.
This setup attempts to balance defensive stability with attacking fluidity, aiming to exploit Sporting’s weaknesses while compensating for Bayern’s own personnel absences — particularly on the wings and attacking midfield.
Sporting CP’s confirmed lineup
Sporting CP will start with Rui Silva in goal, a back four of Ivan Fresneda, Eduardo Quaresma, Ousmane Diomande, and Matheus Reis. In midfield, Morten Hjulmand (captain) and Joao Simoes will hold the center, while Maximiliano Araujo, Geny Catamo, and Alisson Safira support Luis Suarez up front.
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Given the defensive solidity and tactical discipline Sporting often show, this lineup aims to resist Bayern’s pressure, concentrate in midfield, and rely on counterattacks or set pieces for offensive chances — though absences among key attackers may hinder their goal threat.