Skip to main content

Robben fit for Bayern's Champions League playoff

  • Author:
  • Publish date:

BERLIN (Reuters) -- Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben is fit to play in Wednesday's Champions League playoff first leg against FC Zurich after missing last week's Bundesliga game with VfL Wolfsburg because of back and adductor problems.

Coach Jupp Heynckes said the Dutchman was ready to help the Bavarians try to reach the group stages after they finished third in the Bundesliga last season and were forced to pre-qualify.

"He trained very well for the past three days," Heynckes told reporters on Tuesday.

Bayern are desperate to go through especially as the final will be held in Munich next year. The financial fallout from failing to advance is also estimated at about 20 million euros ($28.89 million).

"We know this is a challenge for us. We are aware of the importance of this game and the demand to reach the group stages," said Heynckes. "We are up against a creative and strong opponent who will not go into hiding against us."

The return leg is on Aug 23.

© 2024 ABG-SI LLC. SPORTS ILLUSTRATED IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF ABG-SI LLC. - All Rights Reserved. The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only. All betting content is intended for an audience ages 21+. All advice, including picks and predictions, is based on individual commentators’ opinions and not that of Minute Media or its related brands. All picks and predictions are suggestions only. No one should expect to make money from the picks and predictions discussed on this website. For more information, please read our Legal Disclaimer. Gambling content intended for 21+. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.