Exciting Preview of B. Leverkusen vs Union Berlin Complete with Predictions and Team Insights
Bayer Leverkusen Set to Face Union Berlin in Crucial Bundesliga Clash
Bayer Leverkusen Eye Third Bundesliga Win
Bayer Leverkusen will be looking to secure their third victory of the Bundesliga season as they host Union Berlin at the BayArena this Saturday. Both teams have had challenging starts to the campaign, intensifying the importance of this encounter.
Leverkusen’s Managerial Transition
The summer was a period of significant change for Bayer Leverkusen, marked by the departure of manager Xabi Alonso and several key players. Erik ten Hag, the former Manchester United boss, took over but was dismissed after just three matches, making way for Denmark’s Kasper Hjulmand. Under Hjulmand’s guidance, Leverkusen have shown improvement with two wins and three draws in their last five outings, including a 1-1 draw against PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League.
Defensive Challenges for Both Teams
While Leverkusen’s offense has been effective, their defense remains a concern, having conceded goals in each of their last seven competitive games. Similarly, Union Berlin struggle defensively, with only four other Bundesliga teams allowing more goals this season. Union’s goal concession has been notable, albeit they managed a clean sheet against Hamburger SV in a recent goalless draw.
Union Berlin’s Quest to End Winless Streak
Union Berlin, led by Steffen Baumgart, are eager to break their four-year winless streak against Leverkusen. Despite a strong record against most teams, Union have only managed one goal in their last six meetings with Leverkusen. With Leverkusen’s defensive struggles, Union sees an opportunity to capitalize on their journey across Germany.
Current Form
| Bayer Leverkusen | Union Berlin |
|---|---|
| L D W D W | W L L W D |
| D W D D W D (All Competitions) | W W L L W D (All Competitions) |
Team News and Lineups
Bayer Leverkusen’s lineup will miss star striker Patrik Schick due to a fascia injury, sidelining him until the end of October. Christian Michel Kofane is expected to lead the attack, with Exequiel Palacios also unavailable due to a muscle tendon problem. Martin Terrier remains out due to a long-standing Achilles tendon injury.
For Union Berlin, Livan Burcu is recovering from an ankle injury, and Robert Skov is doubtful after missing recent games.
- Bayer Leverkusen’s probable lineup: Flekken; Quansah, Bade, Tapsoba; Vazquez, Andrich, Garcia, Grimaldo; Tillman, Ben Seghir; Kofane
- Union Berlin’s probable lineup: Ronnow; Doekhi, Querfeld, Leite; Trimmel, Khedira, Haberer, Kohn; Burke, Ilic, Ansah
Match Prediction
Despite not performing at their peak, Bayer Leverkusen have adapted well to recent managerial changes. With a solid track record against Union Berlin, Emegypt predicts a 2-1 victory for the hosts. Union’s ongoing defensive vulnerabilities could provide Leverkusen the edge they need in this pivotal encounter.
