Dortmund vs Leverkusen: Bundesliga Clash Preview & Prediction
The Bundesliga returns with a blockbuster clash as Dortmund host Leverkusen at the Westfalenstadion. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams aiming to solidify their positions in the league table. Leverkusen, the defending champions, are looking to continue their resurgence, while Dortmund seeks to turn their inconsistent form around. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated fixture.
Match Details
- Date/Time: Friday, 10th January 2025 – UK: 7:30 PM / US ET: 2:30 PM / US PT: 11:30 AM
- How to Watch: UK – Sky Sports / US – ESPN+
- Venue: Westfalenstadion, Dortmund
Borussia Dortmund Preview: Can Sahin Inspire a Turnaround?
Borussia Dortmund’s Bundesliga campaign has been underwhelming so far. Sitting sixth in the table, they’ve struggled for consistency, dropping points in more games than they’ve won. However, they head into this match on the back of a morale-boosting 3-1 victory over Wolfsburg before the winter break.
Nuri Sahin, now at the helm, faces the challenge of reigniting Dortmund’s season. The absence of key players like Pascal Gross (suspended) and Niklas Sule (injured) adds to the pressure. Dortmund’s attacking trio of Donyell Malen, Karim Adeyemi, and Sebastien Haller will need to step up if they are to trouble Leverkusen’s solid defense.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
- Striker: Guirassy
- Goalkeeper: Kobel
- Defenders: Couto, Anton, Schlotterbeck, Bensebaini
- Defensive Midfielders: Can, Nmecha
- Attacking Midfielders: Beier, Brandt, Bynoe-Gittens
Bayer Leverkusen Preview: Xabi’s Men on a Roll
Bayer Leverkusen, last season’s invincible champions, started the campaign slowly but have found their rhythm. They are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions, including a dominant 5-1 win over Freiburg before the break.
Xabi Alonso’s side has shown resilience and attacking flair, with Patrik Schick and Florian Wirtz leading the charge. Despite injury concerns for Victor Boniface and Jonas Hofmann, Leverkusen’s depth and tactical discipline make them a formidable opponent.
Predicted XI (3-4-2-1):
- Striker: Schick
- Goalkeeper: Hradecky
- Defenders: Tapsoba, Tah, Hincapie
- Midfielders (Wing-backs): Frimpong, Grimaldo
- Central Midfielders: Palacios, Xhaka
- Attacking Midfielders: Tella, Wirtz
Key Battles to Watch
- Florian Wirtz vs Dortmund’s Midfield: Wirtz’s creativity and vision will test Dortmund’s defensive midfield duo of Emre Can and Felix Nmecha.
- Patrik Schick vs Dortmund’s Defense: Schick’s clinical finishing could exploit Dortmund’s shaky backline.
- Donyell Malen vs Leverkusen’s Wing-Backs: Malen’s pace and directness will challenge Leverkusen’s wide defenders.
Dortmund vs Leverkusen Prediction
This match is a clash of contrasting forms. Leverkusen’s recent dominance and tactical discipline give them the edge, while Dortmund’s inconsistency and defensive vulnerabilities could prove costly. Expect a tightly contested game, but Leverkusen’s quality should shine through.
Prediction: Borussia Dortmund 1-2 Bayer Leverkusen
Betting Tip: Double chance – Bayer Leverkusen to win or draw
