Prediction: Bayer Leverkusen vs Bayern Munich

Verdict: Over 3,5 goals – yes

Best Odds: 13/10

Bookmaker: 888sport

The German Bundesliga will return following the yearly winter break, and it could not have returned with a better match. Reigning champions Bayern Munich will look to extend their lead at the top of the standings, but will battle against another top team such as Bayer Leverkusen. Kick-off is scheduled at 19:30 hrs GMT.

Bayer Leverkusen

Leverkusen have looked impressive during the current season, and in fact they are riding an impressive undefeated streak. If we add all competitions into the mix, then Leverkusen have not lost for their past 14 contests, although they have just seven wins over that span. The fact that they have not lost is certainly encouraging, but the high number of draws should be considered as a potential concern going forward. But there are positive signs going forward when it comes to the future of the team. They have the third-best attack in the Bundesliga with 34 goals scored, and the presence of Kevin Volland has been a game changer for them, as the German forward has nine goals during the current season. As if that was not enough, they are yet to lose at home with four wins and four draws in eight matches.

Team News

Leverkusen are almost at full strength ahead of this game.

There are no confirmed absences, and only two players are doubtful. These are Vladimir Yurchenko (foot) and Karim Bellarabi (shin).

Bayern Munich

Bayern Munich got off to a sluggish start to the season, but they got back on track since the arrival of Jupp Heynckes. The reigning Bundesliga champions have the top scorer in the league in Robert Lewandowski, as the Poland international has scored 15 goals thus far. And as if that wasn’t enough, Bayern have been equally dominant both at home and on the road. Die Roten have the best away mark in the Bundesliga this season thanks to six wins, one draw, and two losses, and they are also yet to drop a game at home. It has been a remarkable run for the team, and they have looked composed on both ends of the pitch. Bayern have the second-best attack with 37 goals, and the top defence with just 11 goals conceded. That last part is quite impressive considering they have not had Manuel Neuer between the posts due to injury.

Team News

Bayern Munich should have lots of absentees ahead of this game. Thiago (thigh), Neuer (leg), and Christian Fruchtl (foot) are all out.

To make things more complicated, there are a few players that are doubtful. These are Mats Hummels (muscle) and Lewandowski (knee), although both are expected to start.

Key Factors to Consider

• Bayer Leverkusen are riding a 14-game undefeated streak. In fact, they are yet to lose a game at home this season (W4 D4)
• Bayern Munich have been the top team in the road, though, registering 19 points. They have a record of W6 D1 L2.
• These two teams are two of the best attacking teams in the league. Both are ranked in the Top 3 when it comes to goals scored this season.
• Bayern have not won at the BayArena in the Bundesliga since back in March 2013. But overall Leverkusen have just one win in their last 10 games vs Bayern across all competitions.
• Two of the league’s top scorers will collide here. Robert Lewandowski has 15 goals, while Kevin Volland is the top German scorer with nine goals thus far.

Conclusion

Both Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen are two of the best attacking teams in the Bundesliga. And both clubs have been impressive this season.

As such, it is safe to expect a goal fest in this one. Expect to see over 3,5 goals.

Verdict: Over 3,5 goals – yes

Best Odds: 13/10

Bookmaker: 888sport