Ballack predicts Bayern will beat Chelsea in Champions League final

May 1, 2012 9:48:00 AM

The German midfielder believes that the Bundesliga giants are favourites and hold a significant advantage over the London club by hosting the May 19 match in their own stadium

Former Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack is of the opinion that only Barcelona could have beaten the Bavarians at the Allianz Arena in this season's Champions League final, and has consequently labelled Chelsea as the underdogs ahead of the May 19 decider.

The 35-year-old was part of the Bayer Leverkusen team dubbed 'Neverkusen' that finished as runners-up in in 2002, and later saw his Chelsea side lose to Manchester United in penalties in the 2008 final. Two of his former clubs will compete in this year's decider, and with the game to be played at Bayern's home ground, he believes Jupp Heynckes' side hold the upper hand.

"I think that only Barcelona would have been able to contest a final abroad, and win it," Ballack told Bild.

"Bayern are favourites. It is a huge advantage to play at home when you are in a final, where a lot of emotions play a role. This is an emotional advantage that Chelsea cannot compensate for."

Despite tipping the German outfit for glory, Ballack remained coy on which club he would be personally rooting for in the showpiece to be held on May 19.

"I have played for both clubs for four years, both spells were super. Therefore, I have my fingers crossed for both."

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