An all-Bundesliga showdown awaits as Bayern Munich host Bayer Leverkusen in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 at Allianz Arena on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. Both teams have been dominant in recent matches, setting up what promises to be an intense battle for a place in the quarter-finals. Africa Football editor Allan Damba provides his prediction for the upcoming German clash.
Match Overview
Bayer Leverkusen did not require a playoff, as they secured an automatic spot in the Round of 16by finishing sixth in the group stage with 16 points from eight games. As Bundesliga champions, their performance in the competition ensured direct qualification for the knockout rounds.
In their recent domestic fixtures, Bayern Munich defeated Stuttgart 3-1, with goals from Michael Olise, Leon Goretzka, and Kingsley Coman. Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, thanks to goals from Nathan Tella, Aleix Garcia, Patrick Schick, and Nordi Mukiele.
Bayern Munich Recent Form Analysis
Bayern remain unbeaten in their last five matches, winning three and drawing two across all competitions. In that period, they have scored 10 goals and conceded just three.
- Last Five Games: 3 wins, 2 draws
- Latest Result: Stuttgart 1-3 Bayern Munich
Bayer Leverkusen Recent Form Analysis
Like Bayern, Bayer Leverkusen have also gone unbeaten in their last five matches, winning three and drawing two. Xabi Alonso’s team has been in excellent form, scoring nine goals while conceding three during this period.
- Last Five Games: 3 wins, 2 draws
- Latest Result: Eintracht Frankfurt 1-4 Bayer Leverkusen
Head-to-Head (Last Five Games)
- Bayer Leverkusen 0-0 Bayern Munich
- Bayern Munich 0-1 Bayer Leverkusen
- Bayern Munich 1-1 Bayer Leverkusen
- Bayer Leverkusen 3-0 Bayern Munich
- Bayern Munich 2-2 Bayer Leverkusen
Our Prediction for Bayern Munich vs Bayer Leverkusen
As has been the case in previous encounters, Bayern vs. Bayer Leverkusen is expected to deliver a tense and action-packed clash, with both sides looking to gain a first-leg advantage.
Punters are advised to bet on Both Teams to Score (YES) at odds of 1.64 on 1xbet. Alternatively, those looking for higher returns can stake on Over 2.5 Goals at odds of 1.76 on 1xbet.
Player to Watch: Edmond Tapsoba
Burkina Faso international Edmond Tapsoba has been a key figure in Bayer Leverkusen’s defense this season, making 38 appearances so far. His defensive leadership and ability to read the game will be crucial in containing Bayern’s dangerous attack, managed by Vincent Kompany.
Best Odds and Betting Tips
We’ve identified the following as the best tips for this match:
- Both Teams to Score (YES) – 1.64 (1xbet)
- Over 2.5 Goals – 1.76 (1xbet)
With both teams in fine form, this clash promises to be a thrilling Champions League knockout battle between two Bundesliga heavyweights.
