We can expect both Union Berlin and Bayer Leverkusen to bring the heat during their clash. With only one point difference between 6th and 10th, the last European qualification is all to fight for.
As defending champs, Leverkusen have started the season on a high. But no one was expecting them to remain at the top, given the Bayern charge was sooner or later bound to come. But they are still in the 4th place. However, the hosts, Union, need to keep working and they might just find themselves vying for a European spot.
Yorbe Vertessen (FC Union Berlin)
The Belgian forward shone in Union Berlin’s historic win over Borussia Dortmund, netting his only goal this season. Despite limited scoring, Vertessen’s relentless work rate, pace, dribbling, and sharp off-the-ball movement have cemented him as both a fan favourite and the coach’s go-to pick.
Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen)
Frimpong thrives in tight spaces, delivering precise crosses and excelling as a wing-back under Alonso’s system. His ability to track back defensively while charging forward to support the attack showcases his versatility. With one goal and two assists so far, he’s proving to be a vital cog on both ends of the pitch.
Bayer Leverkusen have only lost once in the league this season. Union Berlin have scored nine goals and conceded nine as well. Union Berlin have only secured one point in the last three games.
Union Berlin will miss Aljoscha Kemlein, Andrej Ilic, Diogo Leite, and Yannic Stein due to various injuries, with Leite sidelined until late December and Stein out until mid-January.
Bayer Leverkusen have their share of absences too, including Amine Adli (broken leg) and Jonas Hofmann (hip injury). Victor Okoh Boniface and Martin Terrier are also unavailable, both expected to return by mid-January.
Union Berlin have been doing what the fans expected them to do, that is, going with the flow. The mid-table is fine, but if they don’t score enough they won’t win enough. On the flip side, there is a Leverkusen side that is defending, as well as scoring. So, we predict a win for the visitors.
