Borussia Dortmund vs Bayer Leverkusen Prediction: Team News, Predicted Lineups and Where To Watch
A clash between two of the Bundesliga's top six teams sees Borussia Dortmund, currently sixth, host second-placed Bayer Leverkusen at Signal Iduna Park on Friday, January 10th at 19:30 UTC.
Borussia Dortmund vs Bayer Leverkusen Form
Borussia Dortmund are enjoying a solid run of form, remaining undefeated in their last five Bundesliga matches. However, their recent home performance has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last six matches at Signal Iduna Park. They sit sixth in the league standings, while their recent form sees them ninth in the form table.
Bayer Leverkusen, in contrast, are flying high, having won their last five league games and are top of the form table. They also boast an impressive away record this season, remaining unbeaten on their travels, winning five of their seven away matches, and conceding the fewest goals of any team on the road. In previous meetings between these two sides, Dortmund have had the better of it, with three wins in the last six meetings, compared to Leverkusen's one victory.
Borussia Dortmund vs Bayer Leverkusen Predicted Lineups and Team News
Borussia Dortmund Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): Kobel; Ryerson, Anton, Schlotterbeck, Bensebaini; Can, Nmecha; Gittens, Sabitzer, Beier; Guirassy
Dortmund have a few injury concerns. Waldemar Anton is doubtful with an adductor issue, joining Niklas Süle on the sidelines, who is ruled out for several months with an ankle injury. Filippo Mané is also a doubt with a calf problem. To make matters worse, Pascal Groß is suspended after a red card before the winter break.
Bayer Leverkusen Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): Hrádecky; Mukiele, Tah, Tapsoba, Hincapié; Palacios, Xhaka; Frimpong, Wirtz, Grimaldo; Schick.
Bayer Leverkusen are also dealing with some key absences. Jeanuël Belocian is out for the season with an ACL injury, while Victor Boniface is a doubt. Granit Xhaka is struggling with an ankle issue, and both Jonas Hofmann and Amine Adli are deemed unfit for this match.
Borussia Dortmund vs Bayer Leverkusen Tactical Analysis
Dortmund's tactical approach is built on strengths in counter-attacks, attacking down the wings and creating chances through individual skill. They typically employ a possession-based style with short passes, often playing an aggressive game. However, they may struggle to contain Leverkusen's attacking strengths.
Leverkusen are a well-rounded team, with strengths in attacking set pieces, creating chances through balls, finishing scoring chances, and counter attacks. They like to control the game in the opposition half using short passes, and adopt a non-aggressive style of play. Leverkusen's weaknesses lie in preventing opponents from creating chances and protecting a lead, which Dortmund will look to exploit. The clash of styles could see Leverkusen dominate possession, while Dortmund will look to hit their opponents on the counter.
Where to watch Borussia Dortmund vs Bayer Leverkusen
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Borussia Dortmund vs Bayer Leverkusen Key Battle: Marcel Sabitzer vs Florian Wirtz
A key battle in this game will be in the centre of midfield between Dortmund's Marcel Sabitzer and Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz. Sabitzer, with his experience and ability to dictate play, will be crucial for Dortmund in controlling the tempo and creating opportunities. Wirtz, on the other hand, is Leverkusen's creative spark, capable of unlocking defences with his vision and passing. This midfield duel will be pivotal in determining which team can establish control and create goal-scoring chances.
Borussia Dortmund vs Bayer Leverkusen Score Prediction
The Bundesliga resumes after the winter break with a potentially intriguing encounter in Dortmund. While the home side has a strong home record overall, their recent form has been inconsistent, and they face a Leverkusen side that is unbeaten on their travels this season. Both teams have key players missing through injury or suspension, which could impact the flow of the game. Considering their previous two meetings ended in 1-1 draws, a similar outcome seems likely. Therefore, a 1-1 draw seems to be the most probable result for this match.
