Bayer Leverkusen host league leaders Bayern Munich at BayArena on Saturday in a clash that could have a major impact on the Bundesliga title race. Leverkusen sit second with 46 points, trailing Bayern by eight after their goalless draw against Wolfsburg on February 8, while the Bavarians extended their lead with a commanding 3-0 win over Werder Bremen on February 7.
Match Overview
Leverkusen have enjoyed a strong season under Xabi Alonso, competing in the Champions League and reaching the DFB-Pokal semi-finals. However, they face a daunting task against Bayern, who are in red-hot form.
Leverkusen have already faced Bayern twice this season—drawing 1-1 in the league and securing a 1-0 win in the DFB-Pokal, benefiting from an early red card for Manuel Neuer. The hosts remain unbeaten in their last five games and have won 10 consecutive home matches.
Meanwhile, Bayern have dominated the Bundesliga this season, scoring 65 goals and averaging three goals per match. Their latest 3-0 win over Bremen showcased their attacking firepower. However, defensive concerns persist, with the Bavarians conceding 11 goals in their last seven matches.
Team News
Bayer Leverkusen
Leverkusen will be without long-term absentee Jeanuel Belocian. However, Alonso has a strong squad available, with Edmond Tapsoba, Jonathan Tah, and Piero Hincapie expected to start in defense.
In attack, Victor Boniface and Florian Wirtz should feature, while Nathan Tella could be given a starting role in the absence of Martin Terrier.
Bayern Munich
Bayern will miss left-back Alphonso Davies and goalkeeper Daniel Peretz. Raphael Guerreiro is expected to slot into the left side of defense alongside Josip Stanisic, Dayot Upamecano, and Kim Min-jae.
Midfielder Joao Palhinha is doubtful due to illness, which could see Joshua Kimmich partner Leon Goretzka in midfield.
Probable Line Ups:
Bayer Leverkusen: Hradecky; Tapsoba, Tah, Hincapie; Frimpong, Xhaka, Andrich, Grimaldo; Wirtz, Boniface, Tella
Bayern Munich: Neuer; Stanisic, Upamecano, Kim, Guerreiro; Kimmich, Goretzka; Olise, Musiala, Coman; Kane
