FC Augsburg vs Bayer Leverkusen predictions for this Bundesliga clash. Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen aim to widen their table-topping advantage as they visit Augsburg at the WWK Arena on Saturday afternoon. Continue reading to get all of our free predictions and betting tips for this fixture.
Bundesliga | Gameweek 17 — Jan 13, 2024 at 2.30pm UK at WWK Arena
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Augsburg vs Bayer Leverkusen Predictions
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Unbeaten Leverkusen’s Stern Test at Augsburg’s Fortress
Key Stats
– Augsburg has not kept a clean sheet in their last 19 matches.
– Patrik Schick has scored 3 goals in his last appearance, indicating a return to form.
As Bayer Leverkusen, the indomitable leaders of the Bundesliga, prepare to visit the WWK Arena to confront Augsburg this Saturday, the stage is set for a compelling clash. Leverkusen’s undefeated run is a testament to their consistent excellence, while Augsburg, despite their recent dips, have shown resilience, especially on their home turf.
Offensive and Defensive Strategies
Leverkusen, under Xabi Alonso’s stewardship, have displayed a brand of football that is both fluid and tactically versatile. Their attacking prowess, led by the formidable Victor Boniface and supported by the creative genius of Florian Wirtz and Jonas Hofmann, has been a key driver of their success. They employ a high-pressing game, aimed at quick ball recovery, and use width effectively to break down defences.
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Augsburg, on the other hand, has a more conservative approach. Jess Thorup’s side focuses on a solid defensive structure, relying on counterattacks and set-pieces. The importance of Ermedin Demirovic in their attacking setup can’t be understated, as he provides a crucial link-up play between midfield and attack.
Key Player Performances
Leverkusen’s Patrik Schick, returning from injury, is a significant threat. His ability to find space and clinical finishing make him a focal point of their attack. Augsburg’s Phillip Tietz, though experiencing a goal drought, remains a crucial figure upfront. His physical presence and aerial ability could trouble Leverkusen’s defence.
Managerial Impact
Xabi Alonso’s impact at Leverkusen is evident in their transformed playing style, characterised by possession-based, attacking football. Alonso’s tactical nous has been pivotal in Leverkusen’s unbeaten run. In contrast, Thorup at Augsburg has struggled to find consistency, but his ability to organise the team defensively has been commendable.
Expected Goals and Tactical Comparison
Leverkusen’s expected goals (xG) rate, which stands impressively high, reflects their attacking dominance. Augsburg’s xG is modest in comparison, indicative of their struggles in front of goal. In terms of tactics, Leverkusen’s attacking flair contrasts sharply with Augsburg’s defensive solidity and reliance on quick transitions.
Team Improvement Suggestions
For Leverkusen, maintaining defensive concentration, particularly in away games, is crucial. Augsburg needs to find more creativity in midfield to improve goal-scoring opportunities.
Analysis of Managers
Alonso’s pedigree and strategic acumen have been a boon for Leverkusen. His ability to adapt to different game situations stands out. Thorup, while criticised for Augsburg’s inconsistent form, has managed to instill a fighting spirit in the team.
Controversial Point
Alonso’s reliance on certain key players might become Leverkusen’s Achilles heel in tight fixtures, a point of criticism for the otherwise lauded manager.
Expected Lineups and Gameplay Dynamics
Leverkusen (4-3-3): Hradecky; Frimpong, Tah, Hincapie, Sinkgraven; Demirbay, Aranguiz, Wirtz; Diaby, Schick, Bailey. Leverkusen will likely dominate possession and use their wingers to stretch Augsburg’s defence.
Augsburg (4-4-2): Gikiewicz; Gumny, Gouweleeuw, Uduokhai, Iago; Caligiuri, Gruezo, Morávek, Vargas; Niederlechner, Gregoritsch. Augsburg will focus on a compact defence and look to exploit set-pieces and counterattacks.
Predictions for the Game
- Match Outcome – Leverkusen to Win: Leverkusen’s unbeaten run and their superior squad depth, despite the injury to Boniface, make them favourites. Augsburg’s shaky form, especially against top-tier teams, tilts the odds in favour of an away win, even if they might be able to find a consolatory goal at some point.
- Correct Score – 3-1 to Leverkusen: Considering Leverkusen’s high-scoring trend and Augsburg’s capacity to find the net at home, a 3-1 victory for Leverkusen seems plausible.
- Goalscorer – Patrik Schick: Schick’s return to form and his proven goal-scoring ability in the Bundesliga make him a likely candidate to score.
- Corner Prediction – Leverkusen to Have More Corners: Leverkusen’s attacking style and penchant for width should result in them winning more corners.
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