Bayer Leverkusen are all set to host FC Cologne in the quarter-finals of the DFB-Pokal 2024-25 quarter-final next. Xabi Alonso’s men are once again having a good season so far.
They are doing well in the Bundesliga and as well as in the UEFA Champions League. FC Cologne on the other hand are leading the Bundesliga 2 standings.
Die Werkself are having another good season under Xabi Alonso. The coming fixture between Bayer 04 Leverkusen and FC Cologne is going to be electrifying. Both teams are in good form. Xabi Alonso’s men will have some advantage at their end as they will be playing on the home ground.
FC Cologne are on a two-match winning streak in Bundesliga 2. But here it is going to be a tough challenge as they will face the DFB-Pokal defending champions who are in good form. FC Cologne are in good form too but Bayer Leverkusen will have some advantage here as they are playing with top European clubs in the Champions League and are ready with that mindset.
The Switzerland national football team midfielder plays a very important role in Leverkusen’s squad. Granhit Xhaka is an important part of Xabi Alonso’s plan. Although he is not big on scoring goals for his side, he helps his team’s attack by creating chances for them. He remains a big threat to his opponents when he is on the field.
The German footballer has scored two goals in the three German Cup matches for FC Cologne. The 28-year-old forward will play a crucial role and will have a chance of breaking through Bayer Leverkusen’s defence. Xabi Alonso’s men will have to keep a tight watch on Luca Waldschmidt as he can be a real threat to them.
Leverkusen are coming in after securing a dominating 3-1 win over Hoffenheim. FC Cologne and Leverkusen are going to meet for the 29th time in all competitions combined. FC Cologne secured a 2-1 win in their last league match over Eintracht Braunschweig.
Jeanuel Belocian, Martin Terrier, Amine Adli and Matija Marsenic will not be available for Bayer Leverkusen due to their injuries. Florian Wirtz will also miss out as he is facing a yellow card suspension.
FC Cologne will be without seven of their squad members. Mark Uth, Luca Kilian, Julian Pauli and the other four players are injured.
