Leverkusen have started the Bundesliga season strongly. After 11 league matches, they sit 3rd in the table with 7 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses, firmly in the Champions League zone. Their recent form is impressive: in the last round of the Champions League, Leverkusen secured a 2-0 away win over Manchester City, marking four consecutive wins in all competitions. The team’s confidence is soaring, and their overall form is at its peak.
At home, Leverkusen have also been solid. In 8 competitive home matches, they recorded 4 wins, 2 draws, and 2 losses. In the league specifically, their last 5 home games yielded 4 wins and 1 draw, remaining unbeaten. Their attack and defense are well-balanced, and they are gradually regaining home dominance.
Squad news: Flecken, Pohjanpalo, and Schick are all available, but Palacios, Tah, Vasquez, Fernandez, and Arthur are sidelined, affecting midfield depth and defensive stability.
Borussia Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund are no pushovers this season. They currently sit 4th in the Bundesliga, just behind Leverkusen, with a record of 6 wins, 4 draws, and 1 loss. Their recent performance has been solid: in the last Champions League round, Dortmund thrashed Villarreal 4-0 at home, and in their last 3 competitive games, they recorded 1 win and 2 draws, remaining unbeaten.
On the road, Dortmund have been competitive as well, with 5 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses in 10 competitive away matches. In the league specifically, their last 6 away games yielded 3 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss, with the only defeat coming against powerhouse Bayern Munich.
Squad news: Kobel, Schlotterbeck, Brandt, and Giroud are all available, while Guerreiro and Baier are injured. The squad remains largely complete, with strong attacking options.
Head-to-Head
In the past year, the two sides met twice, each winning one match, and in both games the away team emerged victorious. Leverkusen lost 2-4 at home to Dortmund, while Dortmund lost 2-3 at home to Leverkusen. These encounters were high-scoring and intense, showing both sides’ attacking prowess and defensive vulnerabilities.
Analysis
Considering recent form, squad fitness, and head-to-head history, Leverkusen’s home form is hot, and they can score from multiple positions, but injuries affect midfield defense. Dortmund have a relatively complete squad and attacking threats like Giroud and Brandt, making them capable of avoiding defeat on the road. This match is expected to see multiple goals, with both sides likely to find the net.
Prediction: Draw or Dortmund to win
