Bayer Leverkusen could secure the Bundesliga title on Sunday, but before facing Werder Bremen at the BayArena, they’ll play against West Ham in a Europa League quarterfinal first-leg match.
Match Preview
Leverkusen remains undefeated in the 2023-24 season, boasting a record of 36 wins, 5 draws, and 0 losses. They’ve scored 116 goals while conceding 31, marking one of the best seasons in European football history.
Challenging Bayer for a spot in the Europa League semifinals are West Ham, the reigning Conference League champions, eyeing a second consecutive European trophy.
Under David Moyes, West Ham’s form has improved in recent matches.
The Hammers have avoided defeat in their last two games, drawing 1-1 with Tottenham Hotspur and securing a come-from-behind 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Meanwhile, Leverkusen has won their last six games across all competitions. Their recent victories include a 4-0 win over Fortuna Dusseldorf in the DFB Pokal semifinal and a 1-0 win over Union Berlin.
Head-to-Head:
This match marks only the second meeting between Bayer and West Ham. In their previous encounter in August 2023, Leverkusen secured a dominant 4-0 victory.
Bookmakers favor Xabi Alonso’s side to clinch the win at home, where they remain undefeated in 25 matches.
Team News & Updates:
Leading Bayer’s goal-scoring charts is Victor Boniface with 16 goals, although he has been sidelined with an adductor injury since early January.
Patrik Schick is expected to continue filling in for Boniface, having scored 11 goals this season.
Additionally, Florian Wirtz has contributed 14 goals and 18 assists in all competitions.
Bayer boasts five players with double-digit goal tallies this season, with four players registering 10 or more assists.
West Ham’s top goal-scorer this season is Jarrod Bowen, with 19 goals across all competitions, followed by Mohammed Kudus with 11 goals.
Prediction & Analysis:
Despite West Ham’s recent unbeaten streak, Leverkusen’s home advantage and formidable form make them the favorites.
Our prediction leans towards a commanding 3-0 victory for Bayer Leverkusen, extending their unbeaten run to 26 consecutive home matches.
- Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 West Ham
