The live match between M’Gladbach and Leverkusen on August 24, part of the 2024/25 Bundesliga Round 1, is expected to showcase the reigning champions’ strength. Here’s an analysis of team form, expected lineups, betting tips, and score predictions.
Form Analysis: M’Gladbach vs Leverkusen
Leverkusen had a somewhat lackluster pre-season, managing just one win in their friendlies against Rot-Weiss Essen, Lens, Arsenal, and Betis. Despite the unimpressive warm-up, Leverkusen remains a formidable team when they “switch on” for competitive matches.
In the recent German Super Cup, Leverkusen drew 2-2 with Stuttgart before winning in a penalty shootout. Notably, Leverkusen had to play with 10 men after new signing Martin Terrier was sent off in the 37th minute. Despite trailing until the 88th minute, they displayed their trademark resilience to emerge victorious.
Under coach Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen continues to showcase the same determination and grit that led them to a historic unbeaten Bundesliga title in 2023/24. Many times last season, they pulled off dramatic comebacks, eventually winning the league without suffering a single defeat.
Following their success, key figures like coach Alonso and defender Jonathan Tah attracted interest from other clubs but chose to stay. With their core players intact, Leverkusen remains a formidable opponent for M’Gladbach.
In contrast, M’Gladbach barely avoided relegation last season. They suffered a heavy 0-3 home defeat against Leverkusen, marking their sixth consecutive home loss to the same opponent. It would not be surprising if Alonso’s side once again claimed a favorable result.
Team News: M’Gladbach vs Leverkusen
M’Gladbach will be without Borges Sanches and Olschowsky, who are still recovering from injuries. On Leverkusen’s side, midfielder Palacios is unavailable.
Expected Lineups: M’Gladbach vs Leverkusen
- M’Gladbach (4-2-3-1): Omlin; Scally, Itakura, Elvedi, Netz; Reitz, Weigl; Honorat, Stoger, Plea; Kleindienst.
- Leverkusen (3-4-2-1): Hrádecký; Tapsoba, Tah, Hincapié; Frimpong, Xhaka, Andrich, Grimaldo; Wirtz, Adli; Boniface.
Betting Tips for M’Gladbach vs Leverkusen
- Home Team to Lose the First Half: M’Gladbach has lost the first half in 3 of their last 4 matches against Leverkusen. A similar scenario occurred in 6 of their last 7 games at home. It’s advisable not to back the home side before halftime.
- Over Cards: In 5 of the last 6 meetings between these teams, at least 5 yellow cards were shown. Leverkusen’s last 3 competitive matches (excluding friendlies) saw a minimum of 6 yellow cards. Betting on over cards is a safer option.
- Even Number of Goals: 3 of the last 4 matches for both M’Gladbach and Leverkusen ended with an even number of goals. This trend suggests the upcoming match could also feature a goal total divisible by 2.
Expert Prediction: M’Gladbach vs Leverkusen
Sports Mole’s Jonathan O’Shea believes M’Gladbach is not a worthy opponent for Leverkusen. Given their poor home record against Leverkusen, another defeat for M’Gladbach seems likely.
Key Stats: M’Gladbach vs Leverkusen
Former M’Gladbach midfielder Granit Xhaka, now playing for Leverkusen, made 3,588 touches in the Bundesliga last season. No other player in Germany reached that number.
Nowsport’s Prediction for M’Gladbach vs Leverkusen
Leverkusen enters the match in high spirits after their dramatic Super Cup win. Facing a struggling M’Gladbach side, they are heavily favored to win.
Prediction: 0-2
Watch M’Gladbach vs Leverkusen live at: Zonesport.live
Leave a Reply