Defending Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen face a high-stakes showdown as they host league leaders Bayern Munich at the BayArena on Saturday.
Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface will be key to Leverkusen’s hopes, while compatriot Nathan Tella could also play a role in their push for a statement victory.
Leverkusen were held to a goalless draw by Wolfsburg on February 8, marking the first time in 18 matches that they failed to find the back of the net.
That stalemate extended their unbeaten run to five matches, with three victories in that span, while they have secured 14 wins in their last 17 outings.
But can Die Werkself close the gap and reignite their championship ambitions?
Correct score prediction: Bayer Leverkusen vs Bayern Munich
Bayer Leverkusen, perfect in six and unbeaten in 16 home games, welcome league leaders Bayern Munich, who have netted 65 Bundesliga goals but shown defensive frailties.
Leverkusen hold the upper hand this season, having drawn 1-1 at the Allianz Arena before edging Bayern 1-0 in the DFB-Pokal. Alonso's men also secured a 3-0 home victory in last season’s Bundesliga at the BayArena. Both teams boast immense attacking talent, making this an exciting contest.
Boniface will be central to Leverkusen’s charge, while Bayern will look to the likes of Harry Kane to maintain their attacking dominance.
With Leverkusen’s strong home record and Bayern’s defensive inconsistencies, a high-scoring draw or a narrow win for the hosts seems likely.
Prediction: Leverkusen 2-2 Bayern Munich
Boniface: Leading Leverkusen’s charge against Bayern
Victor Boniface has returned in style, scoring in each of his last two games, and is set to lead Bayer Leverkusen’s title push against Bayern Munich.
The 24-year-old striker has netted seven goals and provided one assist in 12 Bundesliga appearances, exhibiting his clinical finishing and physical dominance.
With Bayern missing Alphonso Davies and potentially Joao Palhinha, Boniface could capitalise on defensive vulnerabilities.
Under Alonso's management, Leverkusen employs a dynamic attacking approach, utilizing a flexible formation that adapts between 3-4-2-1 and other setups. This system emphasises building play under pressure, creating spaces for players like Boniface to exploit.
As Leverkusen aim to cut the eight-point gap at the top, his form will be crucial in reigniting their title defence. If he delivers, Die Werkself could make a resounding statement in the Bundesliga race.
Tella: Potential surprise package against Bayern
Nathan Tella has emerged as a surprise package for Bayer Leverkusen this season, delivering crucial moments despite limited starts.
With one goal and two assists in 17 Bundesliga appearances, his versatility adds depth to Die Werkself’s attack.
The 25-year-old's winner at the Allianz Arena in December proved decisive, and he could once again be the difference-maker as Leverkusen seek another statement victory against Bayern Munich.
