In the final round of Europa League group-stage fixtures, Bayer Leverkusen aims to maintain a perfect record as they face Molde, who are fighting for qualification.
Match Preview
Bayer Leverkusen has won all five matches so far and is already through to the knockout stage. They’ve showcased impressive form with victories and goals but come into this fixture after a couple of draws in the Bundesliga.
Under Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen has enjoyed an unbeaten run of 14 games, placing them at the top of the Bundesliga table. They have dominated in Europe as well, notably defeating Molde 2-1 away in early October.
Molde faces a crucial match as they battle to secure a qualification spot. They had a slow start in the group stage but managed to turn things around with victories against Hacken and drew with Qarabag in their previous Europa League fixture.
The Norwegian side has shown resilience, including a 1-0 victory in the Norwegian Cup final against Bodo/Glimt, but they must aim for a win against Leverkusen to climb into the qualification spot in the group.
Team News
Bayer Leverkusen might opt for some changes due to their busy schedule, with Victor Boniface leading the attack and several other alterations expected in midfield and defense.
Molde is likely to field an unchanged lineup from their draw against Qarabag, relying on key players like Eriksen and Berisha in midfield and attack.
Possible Lineups
Bayer Leverkusen: (4-2-3-1)
Kovar;
Stanisic, Kossounou, Tapsoba, Hincapie;
Xhaka, Andrich;
Tella, Hlozek, Hofmann;
Boniface
Molde: (5-3-2)
Petersen;
Lovik, Ellingsen, Oyvann, Haugan, Haugen;
Eriksen, Breivik, Grodem;
Berisha, Eikrem
Prediction: Bayer Leverkusen 3-1 Molde
Leverkusen, with their consistent winning form and quality across the pitch, is likely to secure another victory against Molde at the BayArena. Despite Molde’s need for points, Leverkusen’s confidence and skill should see them through.
