The Pharmacists seek a cure for the Bavarian plague

Leverkusen arrives at this DFB Pokal clash sitting in 6th, which is essentially the footballing equivalent of a participation trophy waiting to happen. With 52 points and a history of choking so consistent it could be studied in medical schools, the Neverkusen ghost is once again rattling its chains at the BayArena. They play some lovely, intricate football that looks great on a highlight reel, but when the pressure mounts, they usually have the structural integrity of a wet biscuit.

Then we have Bayern Munich. They are currently perched at the top of the table with 79 points, treating the Bundesliga like a personal ATM. For Bayern, the DFB Pokal isn't a quest for glory; it’s a mandatory chore they perform before lifting yet another trophy. They don't just win games; they suck the joy out of the stadium with the clinical indifference of a corporate downsizing consultant.

The Pharmacists are desperately searching for a formula to stop the Munich machine, but their defensive line often looks like it was organized via a group chat that nobody is actually reading. UNLESS Bayern decides to field their groundskeeping staff or the entire squad catches a sudden case of collective vertigo, this is going to be a long, painful night for the home fans.

EXPECT the usual script: Leverkusen will look brave and ambitious for exactly fifteen minutes. They might even string together some passes that make the commentators swoon. Then, Bayern will realize they have a dinner reservation to catch, flip the switch, and proceed to dismantle Leverkusen with a terrifying lack of emotion.

If you’re looking for a Cinderella story, go to the library. If you’re looking for a cold-blooded execution of footballing ambition, tune in to this.

Bold prediction: 1-3 to Bayern Munich