Just as it looked like Bayern Munich would be getting healthy in time for their Champions League tie with Barcelona a death blow occurred in the DFP Pokal semifinal against Borussia Dortmund. Arjen Robben made his return to the side as a substitute after missing seven games, but quickly fell victim to a calf muscle tear. Robert Lewandowski‘s collision with keeper Mitchell Langerak resulted in a broken jaw. The loss of the attacking pair erases any chance of claiming Europe’s top prize.

Robben and Lewandowski have been equally important this season for Bayern. Robben was having arguably his best season ever before the injury bug caught up with him a little over a month ago. He still sits second in the Bundesliga with 17 goals. This comes after being one of the best players during the World Cup. Everyone knows he will cut inside, but not many have been able to stop him.

Lewandowski is one goal behind Robben in the Bundesliga. He has 23 goals in all competitions and scored a brace four times since Feb. 21. Lewandowski scored two of Bayern’s goals against FC Porto in the second leg of the Champions League quarterfinal that allowed the team to advance to the next stage. The collision in the match against Dortmund, which could have brought a penalty call on Langerak, resulted in a broken jaw and nose as well as a concussion for the Polish striker.

Thiago also earned a hefty thigh bruise in the match. He has been a vital piece of the team over his eight matches since returning from injury. However, his fitness will be tested as Bayern continue to play multiple matches in a week’s time. The injuries have piled up this calendar year and coincided with heavy scheduling that has to be wearing on the team.

Concern over the number of minutes being played means that possession is emphasized even more, but when a good chance arises the top offensive players will not be there to capitalize. Lewandowski has been called the best No. 9 player in the world. While Bayern have other superstars, he will be hard to replace. The chances he was creating are no longer there. Meanwhile, the attacking front line of Barcelona only need a sliver of space to get a good look.

It was already going to be a tall task for Bayern in this tie with Barcelona, as the two teams have been labeled as the best in Europe all season long. But losing two of your best when the other team has a full squad makes a difference, even at the top of the heap.

Douglas Smith is a writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @DFresh39, “Like” him on Facebook, or add him to your network on Google.

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