Bayer Leverkusen vs PSV Eindhoven Preview – Champions League
The Champions League continues on Wednesday night as Bayer Leverkusen take on PSV Eindhoven at the BayArena. Both sides failed to win on matchday one, meaning this clash could be crucial in shaping their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds. It’s the first time these two meet in Europe in more than 30 years, and history isn’t exactly in PSV’s favour.
Match Preview
Leverkusen have found new life under Kasper Hjulmand, going unbeaten since he replaced Erik ten Hag. Their weekend win over St. Pauli stretched that run, although keeping clean sheets remains an issue. Still, Die Werkself have proved tough to beat and will fancy themselves against Dutch opposition, given they’ve never lost to a side from the Netherlands in seven attempts.
PSV, on the other hand, started their group campaign with a shock home defeat to Union Saint-Gilloise. Peter Bosz’s men did bounce back domestically with a win at Excelsior, extending an impressive away streak in the Eredivisie. But when it comes to Germany, the stats are brutal – PSV haven’t won away against a German club since 1977, a barren spell stretching 17 games.
Head-to-Head Stats
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Last meeting: Leverkusen beat PSV at home and drew away back in 1994.
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Leverkusen unbeaten in 7 games vs Dutch opposition (4W, 3D).
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PSV have gone 17 European away matches without a win in Germany.
Team News
Leverkusen will likely be without skipper Robert Andrich and striker Patrik Schick after weekend knocks, while Exequiel Palacios, Martin Terrier and Nathan Tella are also sidelined. Malik Tillman, who joined from PSV in the summer, will be keen to face his old side.
PSV’s injury list is even longer. Ruben van Bommel, their scorer on matchday one, is out with a serious knee problem. Alassane Plea, Myron Boadu and Kiliann Sildillia are also missing, while Sergiño Dest, Ricardo Pepi and Anass Salah-Eddine face late fitness checks. Joey Veerman, in excellent form this season, will be key in midfield.
Betting Odds
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Bayer Leverkusen win: 1/2
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Draw: 3/1
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PSV Eindhoven win: 9/2
(odds subject to change)
Prediction
Both sides have defensive frailties, and given PSV’s attacking approach under Bosz, goals look likely. However, Leverkusen’s home form, history against Dutch clubs, and PSV’s long German curse suggest the hosts should edge it.
Winonbetonline Prediction: Bayer Leverkusen 2-1 PSV Eindhoven
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