FC Augsburg will begin their double game week by hosting Bayern München at the WWK ARENA on Wednesday evening (20th January, 20:30 CET). FCA will face a challenge when the record champions come to town, but Heiko Herrlich’s side will be looking to deliver a tough fight. 
 
“Something would be very wrong if the players were happy after having lost two games against teams that we could have taken something from,” said Herrlich. Goalkeeper Rafal Gikiewicz was especially frustrated after the 2-0 defeat in Bremen. “Rafal is very goal-oriented and it’s important to have players like that,” said Herrlich. “Players who aren’t afraid to come out of their comfort zone.”

FCA will have an opportunity to do exactly that on Wednesday evening, as they host league-leaders FC Bayern München. Herrlich has a good feeling about his side’s mindset going into the game. “I witnessed a lot of passion and desire during training - everyone is ready to give it their all,” he said, adding “We will need to be focused and courageous, as well as not allowing them much space on the pitch. We will give it everything we have.”

Herrlich was able to share a positive update about Iago. The Brazilian will take part in the final training session with the team. “I’m expecting that he will be available for Wednesday,” said Herrlich. Marco Richter is also available for selection again after serving his red-card suspension. Alfred Finnbogason and Tim Civeja suffered knee wounds over the past days, but should both be available for the mid-week fixture. 

Civeja was able to make his senior debut in Bremen last weekend. “From match to match over the summer, Tim continued to improve, but then had an injury setback. He played well during the friendly against Regensburg and I wanted to give him some minutes in Bremen,” said Herrlich.

Herrlich: "Want to show what's possible"

The last meeting between the sides ended 2-2 in October 2019. “That memory is likely still with the team, and we will now once again try to make things difficult for Bayern,” said Herrlich. “There’s no doubt about it: Bayern München are still Bayern München - they are a world-class side. But, we have nothing to lose and want to show what’s possible with willpower and strong challenges.”

FCA have already proven their ability to upset top teams, after having beaten Dortmund 2-0 earlier this season. “That was definitely a highlight, especially as we had 6,000 fans there. We will be missing that this time, but we have to accept the situation as it is,” said Herrlich.

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