Bayer Leverkusen continue their Bundesliga title chase with a trip to Holstein Kiel on Saturday, Striker Victor Boniface, who scored in the reverse fixture, will be eager to make an impact after being benched in last weekend's goalless stalemate against Bayern Munich.
Xabi Alonso’s side sit second in the table with 47 points, just behind the reigning champions, while their hosts find themselves rooted in 18th place with only 13 points from 21 games.
Kiel’s season has been defined by struggles at both ends of the pitch. They have the second-worst defensive record in the league, conceding 54 goals, while their attack has failed to produce consistently. Meanwhile, Leverkusen have been one of the Bundesliga’s most dominant teams, with a balanced mix of defensive resilience and attacking fluidity.
This encounter presents a stark contrast: a side battling for survival against one pushing for the title.
Correct score prediction: Bayer Leverkusen vs Holstein Kiel
Despite Kiel’s tendency to score consolation goals, Leverkusen’s superior quality should see them cruise to victory. Alonso's side have remained unbeaten away from home this season, and with their attacking firepower, they should have no trouble breaching Kiel’s fragile defense.
Expect Leverkusen to secure a 3-1 win, with Nathan Tella and Boniface both expected to play crucial roles.
How Victor Boniface is seeking redemption
Boniface will be eager to reclaim his starting spot after being an unused substitute against Bayern.
Since returning from injury against Hoffenheim, the Nigeria striker has made three appearances, scoring twice. In total, he has bagged 10 goals in 18 matches across all competitions.
With Leverkusen chasing Bayern at the top, Boniface’s presence could be decisive. His physicality, hold-up play, and finishing ability make him a vital asset, and he will be eager to prove his worth against a struggling Kiel side. If given the nod, he could be the difference-maker in a game that Leverkusen cannot afford to slip up in.
Nathan Tella is Alonso’s pressing machine
Tella has emerged as a key figure in Alonso’s system, often preferred over Boniface and Patrik Schick due to his work rate and pressing ability.
The 25-year-old winger has registered three goals and three assists in 30 appearances across all competitions this season. His recent performances have boosted his chances of earning a call-up to Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Tella’s energy could be crucial in unlocking Kiel’s defensive line, especially if Leverkusen deploy their high-intensity pressing game.
