The eagerly awaited DFB-Pokal semi-final is set to take place at the BayArena in Leverkusen, where Bayer Leverkusen will host Bayern Munich. Both teams come into this high-stakes match with contrasting forms and a historic rivalry that promises to deliver an intense clash.
Bayer Leverkusen arrives at this semi-final in a buoyant yet turbulent state, showcasing an exciting style of attacking football while grappling with some inconsistency in their results. Recent matches have seen them draw 3-3 with Heidenheim, lose 1-2 to Augsburg, and engage in a frenzied 6-3 shootout against Wolfsburg. Despite their defensive issues, the return of key player Grimaldo adds vital creativity to their game. Known for putting up a fierce fight at home, Bayer will aim to unsettle Bayern early on.
Bayern Munich, fresh off their latest Bundesliga triumph, will enter the match riding a seven-game winning streak, demonstrating solid consistency and execution. However, the visitors are facing personnel challenges which could complicate their lineup decisions. Notably, Bayern has not reached the DFB-Pokal final in six years, making this encounter a significant motivational lift for them as they aim to reclaim their position in the final.
Probable lineups
- Bayer: Flekken, Tapsoba, Andrich, Quansah, Palacios, Garcia, Grimaldo, Kalbret, Tella, Maza, Kofane
- Bayern: Neuer, Laimer, Upamecano, Tah, Davies, Kimmich, Pavlovic, Olise, Musiala, Dias, Kane
Key facts and head-to-head
- In seven of the last ten head-to-head matches, Bayer have avoided defeat against Bayern.
- In nine of the last ten meetings between these teams, there have been no more than three goals scored.
- Bayern often struggle in Leverkusen, regularly conceding the initiative to the home side.