Bayer Leverkusen vs Bochum predictions for Wednesday’s German Bundesliga fixture. Can Leverkusen extend their positive run and consolidate their top position in the Bundesliga table with a win against inconsistent Bochum? Read on for our free predictions and betting tips.
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Match Live Wednesday, 20th December at 7:30 pm In:
Bayer Leverkusen vs Bochum Predictions
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Leverkusen’s Unbeaten Run Faces Bochum’s Resurgence
Key Stats
– Bochum has won three of their last six league fixtures, indicating a significant form improvement.
– Both teams have shown a tendency for high-scoring games, with Leverkusen averaging 2.8 goals per game and Bochum involved in matches with over 3.5 goals in half of their away games.
Bayer Leverkusen, under the astute guidance of Xabi Alonso, has been nothing short of spectacular in the Bundesliga this season. Their unbeaten run in the league – winning 12 and drawing three of their first 15 games – is a testament to their balanced and effective approach. Leverkusen’s tactical fluidity, coupled with their attacking prowess, has seen them net a remarkable 42 goals while conceding just 12. This solid defence and lethal attack make them a formidable opponent for any team.
Our Suggested Best Value Bet For This Match
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Best Value Bet Rationale
The rationale behind this bet lies in Boniface’s impressive form this season. The Leverkusen forward has consistently demonstrated his scoring prowess, netting 9 goals in 15 matches. His recent performances, particularly in the game against Eintracht Frankfurt where he was directly involved in all three goals, underline his importance to Leverkusen’s attack. Notably, Boniface’s average BettingTips4You rating of 7.53, boosted by scores such as 7.6 against Borussia Dortmund and 7.9 against Eintracht Frankfurt, reflects his consistently high level of play.
Moreover, Leverkusen’s offensive record this season has been formidable. With 42 goals in 15 league games, they boast a strong attacking lineup that frequently creates scoring opportunities. Boniface, with his ability to find the net from inside the box – 9 out of his total goals – and his proficiency in converting big chances, is a prime candidate to capitalise on these opportunities.
Bochum’s defensive record further strengthens the case for this bet. They have conceded 29 goals in 15 matches, indicating vulnerabilities that a striker of Boniface’s caliber can exploit. Given these factors, betting on Victor Boniface to score anytime offers a promising value, especially considering the boosted odds from Bet365.
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Bochum’s Turnaround and Tactical Resilience
Bochum, on the other hand, has displayed resilience and tenacity, especially in recent games. Despite a rocky start to their campaign, Thomas Letsch’s side has shown commendable spirit, bagging three wins in their last six league fixtures. Their ability to bounce back, highlighted by a 3-0 victory over 1. FC Union Berlin, suggests a team growing in confidence and competence.
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Mainz’s Scoring Struggles
Contrastingly, Mainz’s offensive output has been lacklustre. Their struggle to find the back of the net, coupled with their position in the league standings, indicates a team battling to create and convert chances. This deficiency is a significant handicap, especially when up against a team with Dortmund’s defensive capabilities.
Key Areas and Managerial Analysis
The match could be decided in the midfield, where Dortmund’s creative forces like Julian Brandt and Marco Reus will likely dominate possession and dictate play. Mainz will need to be defensively astute to withstand Dortmund’s attacking waves.
Edin Terzić, Dortmund’s coach, has managed to create a team that is resilient and aggressive at home. His tactics will likely focus on exploiting Mainz’s defensive vulnerabilities. On the other hand, Mainz’s coach Jan Siewert faces the daunting task of rallying his troops against a superior opponent, requiring a tactically sound and defensively robust approach.
Key Player Showdown: Boniface vs Asano
Two players stand out in this matchup: Victor Boniface for Leverkusen and Takuma Asano for Bochum. Boniface’s involvement in Leverkusen’s recent game against Eintracht Frankfurt, where he contributed to all three goals, shows his importance in their offensive setup. Asano’s role as a central figure in Bochum’s attack, with 5 goals to his name, makes him a player to watch.
Tactical Battle: Midfield Dominance and Wide Play
The midfield battle will be crucial, with Leverkusen likely to control possession and tempo. Bochum will need to be astute in their pressing and use counter-attacks effectively. The wide areas might also be key, with Leverkusen’s wingers and full-backs posing a constant threat with their crosses and dribbles.
Suggestions for Improvement
Leverkusen could benefit from being more clinical in front of goal to avoid missed opportunities. For Bochum, enhancing their defensive solidity, especially against high-calibre teams, will be vital.
Analysing Managers: Alonso’s Ingenuity vs Letsch’s Grit
Alonso’s tactical flexibility and attacking philosophy have been instrumental in Leverkusen’s success. However, he must guard against complacency. Letsch has shown grit and determination in turning Bochum’s fortunes around, but needs to instil more consistency in performances.
The Expected Lineups and Their Implications
- Leverkusen (3-4-2-1): Hrádecký; Kossounou, Tah, Tapsoba; Frimpong, Andrich, Xhaka, Grimaldo; Hofmann, Wirtz; Boniface. Leverkusen’s formation is geared towards dominating midfield and creating width.
- Bochum (4-3-3): Riemann; Gamboa, Oermann, Schlotterbeck, Bernardo; Losilla, Osterhage, Daschner; Asano, Paciência, Antwi-Adjei. Bochum’s setup suggests a focus on defensive solidity and quick transitions.
Predictions Based on Team Dynamics
- Match Outcome Prediction: Considering Leverkusen’s offensive strength and home advantage, a win for Leverkusen seems probable. However, given Bochum’s recent upturn in form, they might put up a tough fight.
- Correct Score Prediction: A 3-1 victory for Leverkusen aligns with both teams’ recent form and scoring patterns.
- Goalscorer Prediction: Victor Boniface, with his recent form and pivotal role in Leverkusen’s attack, is a strong candidate to score.
- First Half Result Prediction: Leverkusen’s tendency to start strong suggests they could lead at half-time.
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