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Xabi Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen will take on Borussia Monchengladbach in a thrilling Bundesliga encounter at the BayArena. With Leverkusen flying high at the top of the table, the match promises to be a battle for supremacy in German football.
Leverkusen's title charge remains strong after a dramatic last-gasp away win over RB Leipzig in their previous match. They are undefeated in all their 18 Bundesliga games this season and are determined to clinch their first-ever league crown. Currently, they hold a four-point lead over defending champions Bayern Munich, making them the team to beat.
On the other hand, Borussia Monchengladbach has been inconsistent as of late, with three defeats in their last five games. Their recent loss to Augsburg at home further highlighted their unpredictable form. Currently sitting in 12th place, they are nine points clear of relegation but will need to find consistency to climb the standings.
Gerardo Seoane's side will be seeking redemption after their 3-0 defeat to Leverkusen earlier this season. Both teams have a lot at stake, making this match a must-watch for football enthusiasts.
Team News and Tactics
Bayer Leverkusen
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Leverkusen will face a test of their title credentials with several key players unavailable. Top scorer Victor Boniface remains sidelined due to injury, while Edmond Tapsoba, Odilon Kossounou, and Amine Adli are away on international duty.
In addition, Exequiel Palacios and Jeremie Frimpong picked up injuries in the previous match against RB Leipzig. Suspension to Jonathan Tah and the long-term absence of Arthur adds further challenges to Leverkusen's defensive options.
Midfielder Robert Andrich could be deployed in the back three alongside Piero Hincapie and Josip Stanisic. Leverkusen is also closing in on a loan move for Real Betis striker Borja Iglesias, who could become eligible to make his debut in this game.
Leading the line will be Patrik Schick, supported by Florian Wirtz and Jonas Hofmann in the attacking third.
Probable Lineup (3-4-2-1): Hradecky; Stanisic, Andrich, Hincapie; Frimpong, Xhaka, Puerta, Grimaldo; Hofmann, Wirtz; Schick
Borussia Monchengladbach
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Borussia Monchengladbach will miss the services of defender Ko Itakura, who is away on international duty with Japan. Head coach Gerard Seoane will also be without Tomas Cvancara, Jonas Omlin, Lukas Ullrich, Rocco Reitz, and Maximilian Wober due to injuries and doubts.
However, Julian Weigl, who served a suspension in the previous match, will make a full return. Defensive midfielder Manu Kone is expected to overcome a hip issue and feature in the game.
Leading Gladbach's attack will be Jordan Siebatcheu and Alassane Plea, who has been their top scorer this season.
Probable Lineup (4-4-2): Nicolas; Scally, Friedrich, Elvedi, Netz; Honorat, Weigl, Kone, Hack; Siebatcheu, Plea
Key Stats
- Leverkusen has won 12 of their last 14 Bundesliga matches and remains unbeaten this season.
- Leverkusen is the second-highest scorer in the Bundesliga with 50 goals in 18 matches.
- Monchengladbach has only secured one win in their previous five league games.
- Monchengladbach has collected just one point from their last five away fixtures.
Player to Watch: Florian Wirtz
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Florian Wirtz has been one of the standout players for Bayer Leverkusen this season. Playing a vital role in their attacking prowess, Wirtz has created 42 chances and contributed with five goals and six assists. Deployed as one of the advanced midfielders in their system, he will look to add to his impressive tally in this game.
Prediction: Bayer Leverkusen 3-1 Borussia Monchengladbach
Leverkusen cannot afford to lose against an unpredictable Monchengladbach side. With a slim lead at the top, a defeat could change the dynamics of the title race. However, Leverkusen has shown a resilient and never-say-die spirit, demonstrated in their last-gasp victory. The Hard Tackle predicts a comfortable 3-1 win for the hosts.
Join us for this thrilling Bundesliga clash as two strong contenders battle for supremacy on the field.
