Bayer Leverkusen vs Bayern Munich: Match Preview, Team News & Analysis

Bayer Leverkusen

Xabi Alonso's side saw their impressive 18-game scoring streak come to an unexpected halt against Wolfsburg, despite a golden opportunity for Nordi Mukiele in the 22nd minute. The defender failed to convert a close-range chance following a corner, leaving Leverkusen frustrated.

Despite their strong position in multiple competitions—including a DFB-Pokal semi-final and a Champions League last-16 spot—their projected season tally of 78 points is significantly lower than last season’s 90-point haul.

Leverkusen’s attack remains potent, having netted 17 goals in their last six Bundesliga matches. However, defensive consistency is a concern, with just three clean sheets in their previous 12 league outings.

This season, they have already faced Bayern twice, playing out a 1-1 draw in the Bundesliga in September and securing a narrow 1-0 win in the DFB-Pokal in December after benefiting from Manuel Neuer’s early red card.

Their recent draw with Wolfsburg extended their unbeaten run to five matches, including three wins. At the BayArena, they have been dominant, remaining undefeated in 16 games and winning their last 10 home matches, scoring three or more goals in three of their past four fixtures.

Leverkusen Team News

Leverkusen will be without center-back Jeanuel Belocian, who is sidelined for the remainder of the season.

In defense, Edmond Tapsoba, Jonathan Tah, and Piero Hincapie are expected to form the backline in front of goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky.

Victor Boniface and Florian Wirtz are set to lead the attack, while Nathan Tella could be drafted in to cover for the long-term absence of Martin Terrier.

Bayern Munich

Bayern come into this clash with confidence following a dominant display against Werder Bremen, where they limited their opponents to just 0.13 expected goals (xG) while generating over four xG themselves.

Under Vincent Kompany, the Bavarians have been an attacking powerhouse, scoring three or more goals in 19 matches this season. With 65 Bundesliga goals already, they are on course to reach 105 league goals—an achievement they have only surpassed twice since 1905-06.

Their recent 2-1 victory over Celtic in the Champions League last-16 first leg highlighted their attacking quality but also exposed some defensive vulnerabilities, with the Scottish side threatening on the counter.

Defensively, Bayern have struggled in recent weeks, conceding 11 goals in their last seven matches—more than they allowed in the previous 15 fixtures combined.

However, their overall form remains impressive, with five consecutive wins across all competitions and nine victories in their last 10 matches. Their away form, however, has been inconsistent, with four wins, one draw, and two losses in their last seven road games.

Bayern Munich Team News

Bayern will be without left-back Alphonso Davies and backup goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, though the latter's absence is unlikely to affect the squad, given that Manuel Neuer is the first-choice keeper.

Raphael Guerreiro is expected to slot in at left-back, forming a defensive line alongside Josip Stanisic, Dayot Upamecano, and Kim Min Jae.

Midfield enforcer Joao Palhinha remains a doubt due to illness. If unavailable, Joshua Kimmich is likely to partner with Leon Goretzka in central midfield.

This sets the stage for an exciting Bundesliga showdown, with both teams looking to assert dominance in the title race.