Bayer Leverkusen is set to face Olympiacos at Stadio Georgios Karaiskaki as they vie for a spot in the Champions League round of 16. This pivotal encounter occurs amid contrasting fortunes for both teams. Olympiacos hopes to regain form after struggling in European competition, while Leverkusen aims to bounce back from recent league defeats.
Match Preview: Olympiacos vs Bayer Leverkusen
Olympiacos, current champions of the Greek Super League, are seeking to improve their Champions League standing. They have secured just five points from six matches, ranking 29th in the competition. Their record includes one win, two draws, and three losses, leaving them trailing Copenhagen by two points.
In their last Champions League match, Olympiacos managed a narrow 1-0 victory against Kairat, providing a glimmer of hope. Playing at home might bolster their confidence, as they have won four of their last six domestic matches. Their recent home performance against Real Madrid, despite a 4-3 loss, showcased their competitive spirit and capability in front of their loyal supporters.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Challenge
In contrast, Bayer Leverkusen has not replicated last season’s success this term. Under head coach Kasper Hjumland, they have suffered two consecutive Bundesliga losses, including a significant 4-1 defeat to Stuttgart. They currently hold 20th place in their Champions League group with nine points, hovering just above Benfica but trailing Atletico Madrid by three points.
Leverkusen remains undefeated in their Champions League away games this season, having recently secured a notable 2-0 win over Manchester City. They will aim to leverage this away form to earn crucial points against Olympiacos.
Team News
Olympiacos will field a somewhat fit squad, but they will miss goalkeeper Alexandros Paschalakis due to a calf injury. Konstantinos Tzolakis is expected to take over as goalkeeper. Defenders Panagiotis Retsos and Giulian Biancone will likely form the center-back duo due to Lorenzo Pirola’s injury.
Bayer Leverkusen’s lineup will be impacted by numerous injuries. Goalkeeper Mark Flekken and center-backs Axel Tape-Kobrissa and Edmond Tapsoba are sidelined. Janis Blaswich will likely replace Flekken in goal, supported by defenders Jarell Quansah, Robert Andrich, and Loic Bade. Meanwhile, forward Nathan Tella and midfielder Eliesse Ben Seghir are also out due to injuries.
Predicted Lineups
- Olympiacos: Tzolakis; Rodinei, Biancone, Retsos, Ortega; Hezze, Mouzakitis; Martins, Chiquinho, Podence; Taremi
- Bayer Leverkusen: Blaswich; Quansah, Andrich, Bade; Arthur, Garcia, Fernandez, Grimaldo; Tillman, Poku; Schick
Conclusion
As both teams approach this important fixture, the stakes are high. Olympiacos needs a strong performance to improve their European campaign, while Bayer Leverkusen aims to regain their competitive edge. Fans can expect an exciting match, with both sides looking to secure vital points.
