Bayer Leverkusen face a daunting challenge at the BayArena on Tuesday as they attempt to overturn a 3-0 deficit against Bayern Munich in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.
The first leg at the Allianz Arena saw Bayern dominate, leaving Leverkusen with an uphill battle to keep their European hopes alive.
Leverkusen’s problems worsened over the weekend with a disappointing 2-0 home defeat to Werder Bremen, a match in which Granit Xhaka, Edmond Tapsoba, and Florian Wirtz were forced off with injuries.
While Xhaka and Tapsoba are expected to recover in time for the second leg, Wirtz is unlikely to feature.
The team will also be without long-term absentees Jeanuel Belocian and Martin Terrier, while Nordi Mukiele is suspended following his red card in the first leg.
Bayern Munich also endured a frustrating weekend, suffering a shock 3-2 defeat to VfL Bochum after throwing away a two-goal lead.
The loss was made worse by João Palhinha’s first-half red card, though Bayern remain firmly in control at the top of the Bundesliga, eight points ahead of Leverkusen.
Despite the setback, their commanding first-leg victory puts them in a strong position heading into Tuesday’s clash.
Manuel Neuer remains sidelined with a calf injury, meaning Jonas Urbig will continue in goal for Bayern. Aleksandar Pavlović is also expected to miss out due to an infection.
With a three-goal advantage and Leverkusen struggling with injuries, Bayern Munich are heavy favorites to progress.
The hosts will need an inspired performance if they are to produce a stunning comeback and keep their Champions League dreams alive.
