Bayern Munich may sit comfortably at the top in the Bundesliga standings, but when they welcome Bayer Leverkusen to Allianz Arena, they will be aware of the formidable challenge ahead. Despite their domestic dominance, Bayern faces a tough test in their upcoming Champions League clash, with Leverkusen having an impressive record against them under coach Xabi Alonso.
Bayer Leverkusen's dominance under Xabi Alonso
Bayer Leverkusen's recent encounters with Bayern Munich have left the Bavarians with cause for concern. In the six matches under Xabi Alonsoโs management, Leverkusen has been unbeaten, securing three wins and three draws.ย
In their most recent encounter, Leverkusen outplayed Bayern, dominating possession and shots on goal with a 15-2 advantage, although the game ended in a goalless draw. If Leverkusen can replicate this performance at the Allianz Arena, they will be in a strong position to advance to the Champions League quarterfinals, something they have not achieved since their runner-up finish in 2002.
Where can you watch the Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen Champions League round of 16 clash?
Date: Wednesday, March 4
Time: 3 p.m. ET
Location: Allianz Arena, Munich
Watch: Paramount+
Odds: Bayern Munich -133; Draw +290; Bayer Leverkusen +333
Bayern Munich team news
For Bayern Munich, the injury list is relatively short, with Aleksandar Pavlovic expected to miss out due to illness. Despite having several midfield options, Bayernโs coach Julian Nagelsmann will likely rely on the return of Joshua Kimmich, who impressed in his absence during the 3-1 win against Stuttgart. Kimmich is expected to partner Leon Goretzka in the midfield, aiming to strengthen Bayernโs control of the game.
Potential Bayern Munich starting XI: Neuer; Laimer, Upamecano, Kim, Davies; Kimmich, Goretzka; Olise, Musiala, Sane; Kane
Bayer Leverkusen team news
Bayer Leverkusen enters the match with a nearly fully fit squad. Key defender Edmond Tapsoba has recovered from a thigh issue and participated fully in training. The only notable absentee is Robert Andrich, who is sidelined with illness.ย
However, a potential issue for Leverkusen is the disciplinary situation of key players. Granit Xhaka, Florian Wirtz, and Jeremie Frimpong are all one yellow card away from suspension for the second leg. Xabi Alonso acknowledged the challenge, stating, โItโs a situation we need to approach intelligently and control when possible.โ
Potential Bayer Leverkusen Starting XI: Kovar; Mukiele, Tah, Tapsoba, Hincapie; Frimpong, Xhaka, Palacios, Grimaldo; Wirtz, Tella
Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen prediction
This Champions League round of 16 clash is one of the most difficult to predict. While Bayern Munich will be eager to break their winless streak against Alonsoโs Leverkusen, the tie is expected to be a closely contested affair. With both teams boasting strong lineups, itโs hard to call, but Bayernโs home advantage may just prove decisive.
Prediction: Bayern Munich 1, Bayer Leverkusen 0
