Bayern vs Leverkusen tactics, team news, head-to-head, predictions
Bayern Munich midfielder, Jamal Musiala with the against Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, Granit Xhaka. Photo Credit- Sky Sports
The UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first-leg match at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday, March 5th, 2025 by 8 PM (WAT) will see two Bundesliga giants, Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen face off in a highly anticipated clash for a ticket to the quarter-finals. Both teams have showcased impressive form this season across all competitions especially on the part of Leverkusen who qualified for the round of 16 without the playoffs, making this fixture a thrilling prospect for football fans.
Bayern Munich recent performances
The Bavarians are on an impressive run, remaining unbeaten in their last eight games across all competitions. Their recent Bundesliga match saw them emerged victorious in a 3-1 away win against VFB Stuttgart with Michael Olise, Coman, and Leon Goretzka entering the score sheet. At home, Bayern has been formidable, winning their last five matches without conceding fewer goals.
Leverkusen recent performances
Leverkusen enters this match on a four-game unbeaten streak, including three consecutive victories. They recently secured an emphatic 4-1 away win over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga, with goals from Nathan Tella, Patrik Schick amongst others. However, their away form has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last six outings.
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Bayern Munich tactics
Bayern Munich under the leadership of Vincent Kompany, Bayern employs a high-pressing game, aiming to dominate possession and apply relentless pressure on opponents. Michael Olise and Jamal Musiala have been pivotal in the teams’ offensive play, supply passes to formidable striker Harry Kane and utilizing his aerial ability. This approach has been effective but can leave them vulnerable to counter-attacks, especially against teams with fast wingers and a solid defense setup.
Leverkusen tactics
Managed by Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen utilizes wing-backs as key attacking outlets. Alejandro Grimaldo and Jeremie Frimpong play pivotal roles in advancing the ball and creating scoring opportunities. Leverkusen’s strategy focuses on exploiting spaces left by opponents, making them particularly dangerous on the counter. Moreover, Florian Wirtz is another player who has been a crucial figure in their attack by supplying passes especially in the final third.
Bayern Munich team news and injuries
Right wing back and defensive midfielder, Joshua Kimmich suffered a hamstring injury and is expected to miss several weeks. Similarly Harry Kane remains doubtful due to an injury to his calf further reducing options in the attack for Kompany
Leverkusen team news and injuries
Midfielder Robert Andrich, who missed the last game due to a minor injury, remains doubtful to return to the starting lineup. More also, Jeanuël Belocian is out due to unknown injury while Alejo Sarco is facing a match suspension.
Bayern Munich predicted lineup
Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer. Defenders: Alphonso Davies, Kim Min-Jae, Upamecano, Kimmich. Midfielders: Palhinha, Michael Olise, Jamal Musiala, Goretzka, Forwards: Sane, Coman.
Leverkusen predicted lineup
Goalkeeper: Hradecky. Defenders: Frimpong, Tah, Tapsoba, Grimaldo. Midfielders: Granit Xhaka, Tella, Aleix Garcia, Wirtz. Forwards: Boniface, Patrik Schick.
Bayern Munich vs Leverkusen Head-to-Head Statistics
Historically, Bayern Munich has dominated this fixture. In 100 encounters across all competitions, Bayern has secured 60 victories, while Leverkusen has won 21 times, with 19 matches ending in draws. Notably, Leverkusen is unbeaten in their last four meetings against Bayern, recording two wins and two draws.
Bayern Munich vs Leverkusen Prediction
Given both teams’ attacking prowess and recent form, this match is expected to be a high-scoring affair. Bayern’s home advantage and depth in squad may give them a slight edge. A 3-2 victory in favor of Bayern Munich seems a plausible outcome.
