Stuttgart vs Bayer Leverkusen
Bundesliga
Sunday
10th December 2023
MHP Arena
The most comprehensive preview, detailed analysis and reliable predictions of the Bundesliga fixture between Stuttgart and Bayer Leverkusen.
Stuttgart vs Bayer Leverkusen: Preview
Stuttgart form analysis
VfB Stuttgart have experienced a resurgence in recent fixtures, securing three wins in their last five Bundesliga games. Despite losing 3-2 in a thriller against Hoffenheim, the attacking threat posed by Chris Führich and Dan-Axel Zagadou offered optimism. This was validated by scraping past Borussia Dortmund 2-1, as Zagadou and Serhou Guirassy overturned an early deficit. They did suffer consecutive defeats to Heidenheim and Eintracht Frankfurt in between, but responded admirably to beat Werder Bremen 2-0 last time out courtesy of goals from Zagadou and a Guirassy penalty.
Over this stretch, Stuttgart have showcased tenacity and determination to grind out wins, led by Zagadou’s prowess up front flanked by the creativity of Führich. However, manager Sebastian Hoeneß will be concerned by his side’s defensive frailties, keeping just one clean sheet. If Sebastian Hoeneß can inspire greater organization and resilience when out of possession, Stuttgart have enough attacking weapons to envision a top half push. Going toe-to-toe with superior opposition through high intensity displays could make them awkward customers.
Bayer Leverkusen form analysis
Bayer Leverkusen have hit a rich vein of form, securing three wins and a draw over this recent run of fixtures. They started positively by beating Freiburg and came from behind to defeat Hoffenheim 3-2 thanks to goals from Florian Wirtz and left back Álex Grimaldo. Leverkusen then produced their best performance of the season, overwhelming Union Berlin in a dominant 4-0 victory inspired by Grimaldo’s marauding runs from deep. Their momentum continued by clinically dispatching Werder Bremen 3-0, racing to a comfortable lead by halftime through robust finishing.
However, familiar fragility surfaced in their last clash against Borussia Dortmund, throwing away a victory after conceding a late equalizer in a 1-1 draw. Over this period, Leverkusen have showcased impressive resilience. And belief to overcome deficits, led by the ingenious playmaking of Wirtz between the lines. However, manager Xabi Alonso will be concerned by his side’s struggles to manage games when ahead. Addressing these concentration issues could see Leverkusen emerge as unlikely contenders for a Champions League place.
