Bayern Munich look to take their flying form in preseason 2015 with a bang as they take on Italian giants Inter Milan in their second game of their China tour this summer.
The Bavarian giants got past Spanish outfit Valencia with a 4-1 result in their first game in front of a crowd of 49,000 at the Beijing Olympic Stadium on Saturday, thanks to a brace from Thomas Muller and second-half strikes from Thiago and Robert Lewandowski.
They will now look forward to their second encounter in the five-game preseason tour of China.
Star goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who was rested in the game against Valencia, is set to feature against Inter Milan, and he will also be joined by attacking midfielder Mario Gotze. The ex-Borussia Dortmund star had missed the game on Saturday owing to a tight calf.
There is, however, a doubt over the participation of defender Jerome Boateng, who has an upset stomach. Although the Germany international trained at the Shanghai Stadium, his participation has not been confirmed by Pep Guardiola.
Javi Martínez though is set to miss the friendly owing to a knee injury.
"Inter are one of the biggest clubs in Europe. It will be a tough test," said Guardiola.
New signing Douglas Costa, who made quite a mark in the game against Valencia, is keen on maintaining his consistency.
"It went really well [the game against Valencia]," Costa said, "and I already feel relatively good in terms of fitness. But it will take a little while for me to get used to the new culture and the level at Bayern."
The winger received plaudits from his teammates as well for his performances. "He's good in one-on-ones, he's agile and quick on the wings. He's really good for us and I'm sure he'll help us to progress," declared a convinced skipper Philipp Lahm.
Costa provided a perfect assist for Thiago to score the third goal on Saturday. "Douglas gives us an extra burst of pace," added Muller.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini has admitted that Bayern are definitely one of the stronger sides going into the game, but his side are willing to give their best as well.
"Right now Bayern Munich are ahead of us in terms of physical condition because they started their season three weeks ago. For us, the most important thing is to play at a high level in order to improve quickly," said Mancini.
The ex-Manchester City manager also mentioned that Swiss midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri is doubtful for the game.
"Shaqiri is here but has a slight injury and may not be ready. If he's not, he'll be available for Real," the Italian added.
"Inter are like Bayern. We're big clubs. I hope it'll be a great match."
Where to Watch Live
Bayern Munich vs Inter Milan is scheduled for a 8 pm local time (5:30 pm IST, 1 pm BST, 8 am EST) start with live coverage for viewers around the world.
In India, Live coverage will be available on Star Sports HD1 and Star Sports 1.
Viewers in UK can catch the action on Sky Sports 1/HD UK with Live streaming on Sky Go
In Italy, Live coverage will be available at PremiumSport HD
In Germany, Live coverage is available at Sport1 Germany. Live stream option is on Sky Go Germany.
