The stage is set for a thrilling UEFA Champions League encounter as Bayer Leverkusen host AC Milan at the BayArena. Both sides are known for their attacking prowess, promising fans a high-octane match filled with quality football and numerous goal-scoring opportunities.
Predicted Lineups
Bayer Leverkusen (3-4-2-1)
- Goalkeeper: Hradecky
- Defenders: Tapsoba, Tah, Hincapie
- Midfielders: Frimpong, Andrich, Xhaka, Grimaldo
- Forwards: Terrier, Wirtz
- Striker: Boniface
AC Milan (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Maignan
- Defenders: Emerson, Tomori, Gabbia, Hernandez
- Midfielders: Fofana, Reijnders; Pulisic, Loftus-Cheek, Leao
- Striker: Morata
Team Form and Key Players
Bayer Leverkusen
Leverkusen have been in scintillating form, losing only one of their last 61 matches across all competitions. Under the guidance of manager Xabi Alonso, they have developed a reputation for delivering both results and entertainment. The German club has scored in all of their eight matches this term, although they have managed to keep just two clean sheets. Their games often feature multiple goals, with six of their eight matches in the 2023/24 season having at least four goals.
Midfielder Florian Wirtz, who has scored four goals and provided one assist in five Bundesliga appearances this season, stands out as a critical player. Granit Xhaka, a seasoned campaigner, will look to control the midfield, while Alejandro Grimaldo provides an additional offensive threat from the left flank.
AC Milan
AC Milan, on the other hand, have faced a mixed bag of results. They lost their opening Champions League game to Liverpool but bounced back with two wins in Serie A. The Italian giants have shown resilience, losing only three of their last ten away fixtures in Europe’s premier club competition.
Stars like Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao have been in red-hot form. Pulisic has already scored three goals and provided two assists in Serie A this season, while Leao continues to be a creative dynamo for the Rossoneri. New signing Alvaro Morata strengthens their attacking options but will need to navigate injuries ahead of this crucial tie.
Match Preview and Opinion
The upcoming clash promises to be an electrifying spectacle. Bayer Leverkusen are unlikely to settle for a mid-block and counter tactic, opting instead for their usual high-pressure, attacking game plan. This approach means AC Milan will get their fair share of opportunities. However, keeping Florian Wirtz and his teammates at bay will be a monumental task for the visitors.
AC Milan have impressive attacking options and will undoubtedly test Leverkusen’s defense. However, with their known vulnerability at the back and Leverkusen’s explosive form, it will take a formidable effort from Milan to secure a positive result.
Prediction
Bayer Leverkusen appear to have the upper hand and given their form, they are expected to edge out Milan in what promises to be a high-scoring and entertaining encounter. The home side’s attacking verve, particularly with players like Wirtz and Xhaka orchestrating play, should prove too much for the Rossoneri to handle.
Bayer Leverkusen are tipped to win this game, underlining their credentials as serious contenders in this season’s UEFA Champions League.
