Bayer Leverkusen – Bayern Munich
Our Leverkusen – Bayern tip is: Bayern to win – 2.25 odds
- Bayern has won all of its last seven Bundesliga games
- Munich has scored 23 goals in these seven league games
- Leverkusen only played 0-0 against Wolfsburg last weekend
The big showdown in the BayArena is imminent: league leaders Bayern Munich will be guests at the home of their closest pursuers, Bayer Leverkusen, on Saturday. After the recent 0-0 draw in Wolfsburg, the Werkself under Xabi Alonso are now eight points behind Bayern, who extended their lead with a commanding 3-0 win over Bremen.
Interestingly, the different state of both teams is also reflected in their conversion of chances: While Munich proved their efficiency with three goals during the week, Leverkusen struggled with their own weak finishing despite rotation and the return of Victor Boniface. One could think that the pressure of chasing is slowly making itself felt. The Werkself must now show in the direct duel whether they can actually meet the record champions on equal terms – or whether Bayern will further extend their lead in the table. You can find out which team will be better at achieving its own goals in our Leverkusen – Bayern betting tip.
Leverkusen – Bayern info
- Venue: BayArena, Leverkusen
- Date and time: 15.02.2025, 18:30
- Competition: Bundesliga, 22nd matchday
- TV broadcast: Sky
Leverkusen form & record check
Bayer Leverkusen are currently in a mixed state, which is cause for concern. The goalless draw in Wolfsburg last weekend was already the second draw in the last three Bundesliga games, which has seen the gap to league leaders Bayern Munich grow to eight points. In particular, the rotation of coach Xabi Alonso, who rested some key players, proved to be problematic for the offensive power.
The mentality is right
On a positive note, however, the fighting spirit that the Werkself showed in the DFB Cup quarter-final against 1. FC Köln. Trailing 2-0, they managed a dramatic turnaround to win 3-2 after extra time. The convincing 3-1 win against Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga also showed that the team is basically capable of dominant performances. The return of Victor Boniface, who was reintegrated into the team after a transfer to Al-Nassr fell through, could prove to be an important factor.
Interestingly, Alonso has now hinted that he might field Boniface and Schick together in the starting lineup in the future – a tactical variation that could give the offensive play a new impetus. However, it remains to be seen whether this option is enough to catch up with Bayern, who are increasingly pulling ahead. The direct comparison in the upcoming matchday could already point the way for the rest of the season.
Leverkusen facts & analysis
- Second place
- Unbeaten in 19 league games
- Last BL game 0:0 against Wolfsburg
After the intense games of the last few weeks, everything points to a tactical adjustment at Bayer Leverkusen. Xabi Alonso is likely to rely on a 3-5-2 system in the top game against Bayern Munich, with an interesting double act of Schick and Boniface emerging after their recent performances. In midfield, the proven duo of Xhaka and Andrich will remain in place to provide cover.
The dynamic Frimpong and Grimaldo are likely to occupy the wings, while Tah will organize the back three. Wirtz is expected to operate as the link between midfield and attack – a position in which he has excelled this season.
Bayern Form & Bilanz Check
Bayern are currently in impressive form, which is particularly reflected in the last Bundesliga games. After the convincing 3-0 win against Werder Bremen, in which Harry Kane scored a brace, the record champions continue to sit comfortably at the top of the table. With an eight-point lead over their closest rivals Leverkusen, the team is demonstrating impressive dominance in the league.
Brilliant offense
What is particularly interesting is Munich’s offensive power. In their last five competitive matches, the team has consistently scored more than 1.5 goals per game – a rate that underscores their exceptional attacking quality. However, they have also shown a certain defensive vulnerability: in 80 percent of these matches, they have conceded goals, which has been particularly noticeable in the second half.
The positive development is further underpinned by important personnel decisions. The contract extension for Alphonso Davies until 2030 sends a strong signal, and further extensions with key players such as Jamal Musiala and Joshua Kimmich are also in the offing. The 2-1 victory against Celtic Glasgow in the Champions League will have given them additional self-confidence.
Bayern facts & analysis
- Top of the table
- Won last seven league games
- Won last league game 3-0 vs Bremen
Based on the information provided, FC Bayern Munich is expected to field a 4-2-3-1 formation. The defense includes players like Upamecano and Kim, while Musiala and Kane make up the offense. It will be interesting to see if Coach Kompany makes any key changes or sticks with the same lineup that won their previous game impressively 3-0.
Leverkusen v Bayern Head to Head & Statistics
The head-to-head between Bayer Leverkusen and Bayern Munich shows a remarkable recent dominance by the Werkself. Leverkusen have not lost in their last five meetings with the two sides, picking up three wins and two draws.
Leverkusen last beat Munich, 1-0, in the DFB Cup in December 2024. The Bundesliga first leg in September 2024 ended 1-1. Leverkusen’s 3-0 home win in February 2024 was particularly impressive. The two duels from 2023 produced a 2-2 draw in Munich and a 2-1 home win for Bayer.
The goal difference is interesting: Leverkusen scored in all five games, while Bayern scored a maximum of one goal in four of the five games. Leverkusen has been particularly effective in the second half – a series of three consecutive games with at least one goal after the break speaks for itself.
What’s striking: In 80% of the matches, more than 1.5 goals were scored, but at the same time, 80% of them also ended with fewer than 3.5 goals. So, you could say that they were controlled duels, but by no means low-scoring.
