Bayer Leverkusen vs Bochum
Bundesliga
Wednesday
20th December 2023
BayArena
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Bundesliga fixture between Bayer Leverkusen and Bochum.
Bayer Leverkusen vs Bochum: Preview
Bayer Leverkusen form analysis
Leverkusen have hit a good run of form recently, bouncing back strongly from an inconsistent start to the season. On November 12th, they thrashed Union Berlin 4-0 at home thanks to goals from Grimaldo, Kossounou, Tah and Tella. They followed that up with an excellent 0-3 away win at Werder Bremen, with two first half goals from Deman (OG) and Frimpong along with a late Grimaldo strike sealing a comfortable victory. Leverkusen then faced a tough home match against Borussia Dortmund on December 3rd and battled to a credible 1-1 draw, with super sub Boniface canceling out Ryerson’s early opener.
In their next match away at Stuttgart, Leverkusen had to come from behind after conceding early to Führich, but young star Wirtz equalized soon after the break to earn them a 1-1 draw. Most recently at home against Eintracht Frankfurt, Leverkusen won convincingly by 3-0 courtesy of goals from Boniface, Frimpong and a superb strike by Wirtz. Overall, Leverkusen’s attack seems to have clicked with new signings Grimaldo and Tella impressing, while the emergence of teenage sensation Wirtz has provided a real spark in midfield. Tightening up defensively could take Leverkusen to the next level in their push for the Bundesliga title
Bochum form analysis
Bochum’s recent Bundesliga form has been inconsistent but shown some signs of improvement. On November 11th, they drew 1-1 at home against FC Cologne thanks to Daschner’s opener before conceding to Selke. They followed up with a gritty 0-0 away draw against Heidenheim on November 26th to stop the rot after three straight losses. Bochum then earned an impressive 3-1 home win over Wolfsburg on December 2nd, racing to a 2-0 halftime lead through Osterhage and Bernardo before holding off a Wolfsburg comeback after the break. However, their next match ended in a 1-3 home loss to high flying Hoffenheim on December 9th, though Paciencia netted a late consolation.
Most recently, Bochum bounced back with an excellent 3-0 home victory over Union Berlin on December 16th. Goals from Asano, Paciência and a late Stöger penalty capped off a strong performance. Overall, Bochum have shown the capability to get results recently, especially in front of their passionate home fans. However, struggling on the road and leaking goals remain issues. If they can build on their recent home form and sharpen up defensively. They could claw out of the relegation fight in the second half of the season. Staying up would represent a major achievement for the club.
