It is tempting to look at the raw statistics and suggest that Barcelona and Bayern Munich both hoard possession above all, but the reality is that while for the former it is an ingrained philosophy, it is merely a reflection of Bayern's superiority in the Bundesliga.
They are the closest anyone will come to out-possessing Barcelona, but while Barca will keep the ball for the sake of it, Bayern will attack efficiently and ruthlessly when they win the ball.
In that regard, it is likely that the battle for the ball between Europe's possession kings will fall the way of the leaders; but on the broader scale of the imminent war, it is far more difficult to predict a winner.
Having lost Mario Mand�ukić to suspension, Jupp Hencykes must select a new striker. The hierarchy this season has generally seen Mario Gomez deputise in Mand�ukić's absence, but Claudio Pizarro's recent good form has seen his stock rise, and Hencykes went on record this week saying he has "three first choice strikers" to choose from. Still, he will regret the loss of the Croatian, who plays a key role not only in terms of scoring goals, but also in setting the tone for Bayern's pressing, working energetically from the front to close down defenders.
He was handed responsibility for tracking the slippery Andrea Pirlo against Juventus and his replacement will have to do a similar job on Sergio Busquets. The Spanish midfielder typically plays a safe, short passing game, but showed against AC Milan he is capable of quick, positive distribution into the forward line.
That will be one element in what is set to be an engrossing midfield battle. The selection for either side is predictable: Bastian Schweinsteiger and Javi Martinez will be up against Xavi and Andres Iniesta. It will be intriguing to see how Bayern approach this zone, as their midfield pivot is capable of playing two roles - either sitting back and stifling their intricate play between the lines, or pushing up and trying to force the two Spaniards into turnovers. The latter seems more likely when considering how Bayern have approached games this season, with a relentless energy and intensity that has seen them swamp all before them in the Bundesliga.
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