UEFA Champions League Preview: FC Basel vs FC Bayern Munich

Last week's dour draw between Bayern Munich and Freiburg helped nobody.

Freiburg, the bottom side in the Bundesliga was the better side throughout the first half. In the second half, Bayern improved—especially with the introduction of Robben—but failed to find a goal that would see them through.

Hence, Bayern sits in third. For now, they have to watch the two Borussias battle it out for the Bundesliga shield.

An even numbered year rarely passes without a trophy for Bayern., but this season threatens to do exactly that.

Bayern has picked up three clean sheets in the last three matches in all competitions. But, the performance was so dour against Freiburg. What was most annoying was the number of corners Bayern had and the little use they made of them.

Bayern currently has the same number of points as they did at this stage in the season last year, believe it or not. What's more is Louis Van Gaal's team improved and was the best team in the second half of the season.

Van Gaal's reign was strenuous; however, Heynckes isn't getting results any more.

Heynckes can blame the problem on the injuries to Bastian Schweinsteiger, though.

Next up is a team that has drawn their last three matches in the Swiss Super League but still leads by ten points—FC Basel, Manchester United's conquerors.

Bayern met Basel in last season's group stages and won 1-2 and 3-0. Bastian Schweinsteiger scored twice in the victory in St. Jakob Park. He will be absent for this tie, as will be Daniel Van Buyten, Diego Contento and Breno.

For Basel, Philipp Degen and Scott Chipperfield will be absent.

The Basel squad has plenty of familiar names. Mario Gomez's mate Marco Streller plays for them as does former Dortmund hero Alexander Frei.

You all know Fabian Frei by now, considering he scored in the group stages. Xherdan Shaqiri certainly needs no introduction. Also, Bayern will need to be aware of Granit Xhaka.

So, how will Heynckes set the team out? This is my guess:

Manuel Neuer

Philipp Lahm- Jerome Boateng- Holger Badstuber- Rafinha

David Alaba- Luiz Gustavo

Franck Ribery- Toni Kroos- Arjen Robben

Mario Gomez

However, all things considered, Bayern might not win this. Their current form is poor and the Swiss will be the underdogs.