Bayern Munich vs Liverpool: 4 interesting subplots that could develop in the match | UEFA Champions League 2018/19

#3 Importance of the first goal

Can this man open the scoring?

The first half of the second leg at the Allianz Arena might head in the same direction as the first leg. Both teams will be wary of each other’s attacking arsenals and will be looking to counter the attacking blows.

Put into consideration the away goal factor and it throws up its own set of challenges. Technically, a 0-0 draw should suit Bayern since a score draw or a victory for The Reds would see them through to the next round.

But if you look at it in another way, it also means that Liverpool have to at least score once in order to progress (if you take penalties out of consideration). That could ask a few questions of these Liverpool players, whether to play cautiously or to be quick out of the blocks, the second of which might leave them a bit exposed.

However, with Bayern’s home support cheering them on, keeping a clean sheet would be a tough ask. To sum it all up, one goal on the night will be enough to completely change the complexion of the tie as the condition of extra time will go out of the equation.

That is how important the first goal of the game would be. Thus, it might turn out to be a cagey affair at least in the first half.

Or simply, I might be wrong and both teams decide to attack from the first whistle and turn it into an entertaining goal fest.