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 29:30.
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 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.
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.
