RB Salzburg vs Bayern Munich: A Complete Guide to the 2026 Champions League Rivalry

The UEFA Champions League’s new league phase has thrown up some fascinating fixtures, but few carry the recent history and explosive potential of RB Salzburg versus Bayern Munich. As these two sides potentially prepare to clash again in the 2025/26 season, the memories of Bayern’s 7-1 demolition and Salzburg’s spirited draws are fresh. For Canadian fans, this matchup is a prime-time spectacle of German power against Austrian ambition, a clash defined by relentless attacking football.

With the current season’s standings taking shape, both clubs have their eyes on the prize. However, Bayern’s campaign is shadowed by a significant injury list that could tilt the balance if these teams meet in the knockout rounds. This guide breaks down their head-to-head history, the current state of play, and the key factors that will decide the next chapter in this compelling rivalry.

Head-to-Head History: Dominance with a Dash of Resistance

The historical record between Salzburg and Bayern is a tale of overwhelming Bavarian superiority, punctuated by moments of Austrian defiance. Their meetings, primarily in the Champions League knockout stages, have produced some of the competition’s most one-sided scorelines in recent years.

Bayern’s 7-1 victory in March 2022 stands as the definitive result, a brutal exhibition of firepower. Yet, Salzburg has managed to snatch draws, proving they are not mere pushovers on the European stage. The head-to-head data tells the clear story.

Bayern Munich’s 2025/26 Injury Crisis: A Major Factor

As of January 2026, Bayern Munich’s squad is grappling with an unusually long injury list that threatens to disrupt their domestic and European ambitions. Key players across the pitch are sidelined, which could significantly impact their performance and tactical flexibility in a potential matchup against an energetic Salzburg side.

The absence of veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and midfield linchpin Joshua Kimmich removes crucial leadership and stability. This situation forces Bayern to rely on squad depth and could make them more vulnerable, especially in high-intensity European fixtures.

2025/26 UEFA Champions League League Phase Standings

The inaugural league phase of the Champions League has created a marathon 8-match schedule for each team. The top 8 advance directly to the Round of 16, while teams finishing 9th to 24th enter a playoff round. Both Bayern Munich and RB Salzburg will be aiming for a top-eight finish to secure an easier path forward.

While specific team data for Salzburg and Bayern is not fully detailed in the provided sources, the overall table landscape shows the intense competition. Arsenal has set a blistering pace with a perfect record, highlighting the level required to secure automatic qualification.

Note: This is a sample of the 36-team table. Final positions for Bayern and Salzburg will determine their knockout stage path.

What This Means for a Potential Showdown

If RB Salzburg and Bayern Munich are drawn to face each other in the 2025/26 knockout stages, the context will be everything. A Bayern squad at full health would be overwhelming favourites based on history. However, their current injury woes could embolden Salzburg, a team known for its high-pressing, fearless style under young talent.

For Salzburg, the blueprint is clear: replicate the aggressive, disruptive performance that earned a 1-1 draw in 2022 and exploit any uncertainty in Bayern’s patched-up defense. For Bayern, it’s about managing their squad through the injury crisis and leveraging their superior individual quality when it matters most. The next clash won’t just be a football match; it will be a test of depth, strategy, and resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the biggest win in the RB Salzburg vs Bayern Munich rivalry?

The biggest win is Bayern Munich’s 7-1 victory at home on March 8, 2022, in the Champions League Round of 16. It remains the most decisive and dominant result in the history of their encounters.

Is Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies injured for the 2026 matches?

As of early January 2026, Canadian star Alphonso Davies was dealing with a knock sustained in training. His status is listed as “assessing,” so his availability for upcoming matches depends on the severity and his recovery progress. Fans should monitor official FC Bayern team news for updates.

How does the new UEFA Champions League format work for 2025/26?

The new format features a single 36-team league phase, replacing the traditional group stage. Each team plays 8 matches (against 8 different opponents). The top 8 teams advance directly to the Round of 16. Teams finishing 9th through 24th enter a two-legged knockout playoff round for the remaining eight spots in the last 16. Teams 25th and lower are eliminated.