Bayer Leverkusen vs. Union Berlin Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, 12 April 2025 - bettingexpert
Bayer Leverkusen, currently sitting in 2nd place in the Bundesliga with 62 points, will host 13th-placed Union Berlin at BayArena on 12 April 2025 at 14:30. Leverkusen, led by potential future Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, is aiming to close the gap on Bayern Munich by maintaining their impressive league form. Despite an upset in the DFB Pokal and Champions League, their league performance remains strong, propelled by key players like Patrik Schick, who has scored 17 goals this season.
Union Berlin, on the other hand, is striving to consolidate their mid-table security with 33 points. Their recent uptick in form, collecting points in four of their last five matches, highlights the effective coaching of Steffen Baumgart. With key contributions from Danilho Doekhi and Benedict Hollerbach, Union is poised to challenge Leverkusen, especially with their improved defensive routines inspired by Bogarde.
With Bayer Leverkusen being the bookmakers’ favourites, our match tip suggests expecting over 1.5 goals in the second half, rewarding those banking on exciting, late-game drama.
Incorporating factors like Leverkusen’s tendency to concede goals late and Union’s defensive form, this clash promises to have fans on the edge of their seats right up until the final whistle.
Bayer Leverkusen vs Union Berlin Prediction & Betting tip
When Bayer Leverkusen meets Union Berlin at BayArena on 12 April 2025, the game promises excitement, especially in the latter stages. Considering the match dynamics, the recommended bet is "Over 1.5 goals in the 2nd half" due to several compelling reasons found in the matchup’s trends and stats.
| Bayer Leverkusen vs Union Berlin Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Betting tip | Odds |
| Over 1.5 goals in the 2nd half | 1.90 |
- Bayer Leverkusen has been prone to conceding goals towards the end of matches, especially in the 76-90 minute interval.
- With Leverkusen scoring first in 71% of their games, expect offensive efforts to continue, notably in the latter part of the clash.
- Union Berlin concedes an average of 1.4 goals per match this season, indicating potential for late-game scoring opportunities.
Keep an eye out for dramatic finishes as both squads fight for crucial points in this Bundesliga encounter.
Bayer Leverkusen vs Union Berlin Odds
The odds for the upcoming match between Bayer Leverkusen and Union Berlin reflect Bayer Leverkusen’s strong performance this season and their status as favourites.
| Bayer Leverkusen vs Union Berlin Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Bayer Leverkusen | 1.33 |
| Draw | 5.22 |
| Union Berlin | 8.86 |
Bayer Leverkusen’s consistent form, highlighted by their 2nd place standing, gives them the upper hand, while Union Berlin’s position at 13th and defensive vulnerabilities are considered in the higher odds against them.
Expect a competitive match but with Leverkusen having the statistical edge.
Bayer Leverkusen Team Analysis
Bayer Leverkusen Recent Performance
| Home team | Away team | Date | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FC Heidenheim | Bayer Leverkusen | 2025-04-05 | Bundesliga | 0-1 (Win) |
| Arminia Bielefeld | Bayer Leverkusen | 2025-04-01 | DFB Pokal | 2-1 (Loss) |
| Bayer Leverkusen | Bochum | 2025-03-28 | Bundesliga | 3-1 (Win) |
| VfB Stuttgart | Bayer Leverkusen | 2025-03-16 | Bundesliga | 3-4 (Win) |
| Bayer Leverkusen | Bayern Munich | 2025-03-11 | Champions League | 0-2 (Loss) |
Recent Form: LLWWW
Bayer Leverkusen has showcased a mixed recent form, securing 3 wins and experiencing 2 losses in their last 5 games. They’ve scored an average of 1.80 goals per match and kept one clean sheet during this period. Xabi Alonso’s side has been strong offensively, but they’ve shown vulnerability by conceding towards the end. With critical players like Patrik Schick and potential defensive stars like Piero Hincapié attracting attention, Leverkusen remains potent yet slightly inconsistent.
Bayer Leverkusen Key Players
Bayer Leverkusen boasts several standout performers, crucial for their push in the Bundesliga. Central to their attack is Patrik Schick, the home team’s top scorer with 17 goals. His sharp finishing and aerial threat make him a constant concern for defenders.
The defensive line features Piero Hincapié, whose excellent game-reading skills have attracted interest from European giants. Jonathan Tah, another key defender, is highly coveted by Barcelona and will be eager to showcase his skills.
In midfield, Granit Xhaka provides stability and leadership, while Jeremie Frimpong adds dynamism on the right flank.
Expected lineup for Bayer Leverkusen:
- Goalkeeper: Lukas Hradecky
- Defenders: Jonathan Tah, Nathan Tella, Piero Hincapié
- Midfielders: Jeremie Frimpong, Granit Xhaka, Robert Andrich, Alejandro Grimaldo, Aleix Garcia, Amine Adli
- Forward: Patrik Schick
Bayer Leverkusen Suspensions & Injuries
Bayer Leverkusen is currently dealing with several key injuries that might impact their performance against Union Berlin.
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Jeanuel Belocian | Cruciate ligament injury | Mid September 2025 |
| Martin Terrier | Achilles tendon injury | Out for the season |
| Florian Wirtz | Ankle injury | About a week |
| Mario Hermoso | Tendon injury | Out for the season |
| Exequiel Palacios | Groin injury | Late April 2025 |
| Victor Boniface | Illness | A few days |
The absence of Florian Wirtz in the midfield could be a significant blow, given his creativity and influence. Likewise, the long-term injuries to Jeanuel Belocian and Mario Hermoso reduce defensive options.
Florian Wirtz might recover in time to participate in the next match, adding a crucial timing boost to Leverkusen.
These injuries could compel Xabi Alonso to utilize his squad depth, making strategic adjustments against Union Berlin.
Bayer Leverkusen Tactics and Formation
Bayer Leverkusen Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-4-2-1
- Key Forward: Patrik Schick
- Midfield Quartet: Jeremie Frimpong, Granit Xhaka, Robert Andrich, Alejandro Grimaldo
- Defensive Trio: Jonathan Tah, Piero Hincapié, Nathan Tella
- Recent Setbacks: Defensive frailties in late stages of matches; crucial injuries
Leverkusen’s formation often evolves throughout the match, indicating flexibility in their tactical approach. Utilizing a back three with the added wing-back support of Frimpong and Grimaldo provides width and dynamism.
Xabi Alonso’s strategy involves pressing high and looking to dominate possession, thanks to the composed midfield combination of Xhaka and Andrich.
Given their tendency to concede late goals, it will be crucial for them to maintain focus until the final whistle. Their attacking prowess hinges on the creative input from Aleix Garcia and Amine Adli, who provide essential service to Patrik Schick upfront.
Union Berlin Team Analysis
Union Berlin Recent Performance
| Home team | Away team | Date | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Union Berlin | Wolfsburg | 2025-04-06 | Bundesliga | 1-0 (Win) |
| Freiburg | Union Berlin | 2025-03-30 | Bundesliga | 1-2 (Win) |
| Union Berlin | Bayern Munich | 2025-03-15 | Bundesliga | 1-1 (Draw) |
| Eintracht Frankfurt | Union Berlin | 2025-03-09 | Bundesliga | 1-2 (Win) |
| Union Berlin | Holstein Kiel | 2025-03-02 | Bundesliga | 0-1 (Loss) |
Union Berlin has had a mixed bag of results lately, showcasing a decent run of form with three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches. They managed to secure important victories against Wolfsburg, Freiburg, and Eintracht Frankfurt, highlighting their ability to grind out results. Despite their defensive challenges – conceding an average of 1.4 goals per game – they have kept one clean sheet in their last five outings. Offensively, Union Berlin averages 1.2 goals per game, often finding the net even under pressure. Two recent clean sheets and consistent goal scoring hint at their resilience and determination to finish the season strong.
Union Berlin Key Players
Union Berlin’s key players will play a crucial role in their bid to secure points against Bayer Leverkusen. Leading the line is Benedict Hollerbach, who has netted 8 goals this season and will be aiming to exploit any defensive lapses. Supporting him in attack are Marin Ljubicic and Tim Skarke, who are expected to provide crucial link-up play and creative sparks.
In midfield, Rani Khedira and Janik Haberer are pivotal, both in breaking up play and orchestrating counter-attacks. Defensively, Danilho Doekhi and Frederik Rønnow, the goalkeeper, are vital in ensuring Union Berlin remains solid at the back.
Expected lineup for Union Berlin:
- Goalkeeper: Frederik Rønnow
- Defenders: Danilho Doekhi, Leopold Querfeld, Diogo Leite
- Midfielders: Christopher Trimmel, Janik Haberer, Rani Khedira, Josip Juranovic
- Attackers: Tim Skarke, Marin Ljubicic, Benedict Hollerbach
Union Berlin Suspensions & Injuries
Union Berlin heads into this match without any suspensions, but they do have several key injuries that could impact their lineup and performance:
| Player | Injury | Expected return |
|---|---|---|
| Aljoscha Kemlein | Foot injury | Out for season |
| Oluwaseun Ogbemudia | Foot injury | Mid April 2025 |
| Robert Skov | Calf injury | About a week |
| Woo-yeong Jeong | Ligament injury | Early June 2025 |
| Andrej Ilic | Knee injury | Late May 2025 |
The absence of key players like Aljoscha Kemlein and Woo-yeong Jeong will create gaps in both the defense and midfield structures for Union Berlin. With Robert Skov and Andrej Ilic also out, their attacking options are limited. These injuries might compel Union Berlin to adopt a more cautious approach, relying heavily on their remaining fit players to step up against a strong Bayer Leverkusen side.
Union Berlin Tactics and Formation
Union Berlin’s Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-5-2
- Key Forward: Benedict Hollerbach
- Midfield Core: Janik Haberer, Rani Khedira, Josip Juranovic
- Defensive Setup: Danilho Doekhi, Leopold Querfeld, Diogo Leite
Union Berlin, under coach Steffen Baumgart, often deploys a 3-5-2 formation to strike a balance between defense and midfield solidity. Benedict Hollerbach stands out as their key forward with 8 goals this season, providing a focal point for their attack.
In midfield, Janik Haberer, Rani Khedira, and Josip Juranovic are crucial in transitioning play, while the defense relies on the trio of Doekhi, Querfeld, and Leite.
With several key injuries, Baumgart might take a cautious approach, emphasizing defensive stability and looking to exploit counter-attacking opportunities against Bayer Leverkusen.
Bayer Leverkusen vs Union Berlin Head-to-Head Statistics
| Home team | Away team | Date | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Union Berlin | Bayer Leverkusen | 2024-11-30 | Bundesliga | 1-2 (Loss) |
| Union Berlin | Bayer Leverkusen | 2024-04-06 | Bundesliga | 0-1 (Loss) |
| Bayer Leverkusen | Union Berlin | 2023-11-12 | Bundesliga | 4-0 (Win) |
| Union Berlin | Bayer Leverkusen | 2023-04-29 | Bundesliga | 0-0 (Draw) |
| Bayer Leverkusen | Union Berlin | 2022-11-06 | Bundesliga | 5-0 (Win) |
Bayer Leverkusen clearly has the upper hand in recent encounters against Union Berlin, having won four out of the last five matches and drawing once. Their dominance is reflected in both home and away fixtures.
Given Bayer Leverkusen’s current form and Union Berlin’s position, it seems the hosts are well-placed to continue their streak. This history sets an exciting stage for the upcoming clash.
Odds accurate as of 10/04/2025 14:31, and are subject to change. Please always check the odds before placing your bets with any bookmaker.
