VfB Stuttgart vs Bayer Leverkusen Prediction, Match Preview, Saturday, May 9th
In the Bundesliga clash this Saturday, May 9th, VfB Stuttgart will host Bayer Leverkusen at the MHPArena. This match is set to be a significant encounter in the league, with both teams eager to secure crucial points. The phrase ‘VfB Stuttgart vs Bayer Leverkusen Prediction, Match Preview’ captures the essence of this matchup, as both sides look to assert their dominance on the field.
VfB Stuttgart, playing at home, will aim to leverage their familiarity with the MHPArena to gain an advantage over Bayer Leverkusen. Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen will be keen to challenge Stuttgart’s home ground advantage and continue their pursuit in the Bundesliga standings. This fixture promises to be a competitive battle, with both teams having a lot at stake in terms of league positioning.
VfB Stuttgart vs Bayer Leverkusen Prediction & Betting tip
| Betting Tip | Odds |
|---|---|
| Both Teams to Score – Yes | 1.57 |
Both teams have shown a propensity for scoring and conceding goals in recent matches, making the BTTS (Both Teams to Score) market particularly appealing. Given their attacking style and defensive vulnerabilities, this market offers strong value.
- Both teams have scored in four of their last five meetings, averaging 3.2 goals per match.
- Stuttgart and Leverkusen have both scored in four of their last five league matches.
- Key attacking players remain available despite injury concerns, ensuring both sides have firepower.
Betting Odds
In this Bundesliga clash, VfB Stuttgart are slight favourites with odds of 2.14, but Bayer Leverkusen, priced at 2.94, are not far behind, making this a tantalising fixture for punters. The draw at 3.96 also offers an intriguing option for those expecting a tightly contested match.
| Betting Tip | Odds |
|---|---|
| VfB Stuttgart to win | 2.14 |
| Draw | 3.96 |
| Bayer Leverkusen to win | 2.94 |
Given the attacking prowess of both teams, betting markets are buzzing with opportunities on over 2.5 goals and both teams to score. Stuttgart’s home advantage might sway some, but Leverkusen’s potential for an upset can’t be ignored.
VfB Stuttgart Analysis & Past Performance
VfB Stuttgart’s recent form has shown a mixed bag of results, capturing two wins, two draws, and suffering a single loss in their last five Bundesliga fixtures. Notably, they managed to secure an emphatic 4-0 victory against Hamburger SV, which underscores their attacking prowess when in form. However, their 3-3 draw against Hoffenheim highlights a vulnerability in defence, having conceded three goals despite maintaining 54% possession and taking 14 shots.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hoffenheim | VfB Stuttgart | 3 – 3 (Draw) | Bundesliga | 2 May 2026 |
| VfB Stuttgart | Werder Bremen | 1 – 1 (Draw) | Bundesliga | 26 Apr 2026 |
| VfB Stuttgart | Freiburg | 1 – 1 (Extra time: 1 – 0) (Win) | DFB Pokal | 23 Apr 2026 |
| Bayern Munich | VfB Stuttgart | 4 – 2 (Loss) | Bundesliga | 19 Apr 2026 |
| VfB Stuttgart | Hamburger SV | 4 – 0 (Win) | Bundesliga | 12 Apr 2026 |
Recent Form:
In terms of goal-scoring capability, VfB Stuttgart have averaged 2.40 goals per match in their recent outings, with Deniz Undav leading the charge as the top scorer with 18 goals this season. Defensively, they have conceded an average of 1.80 goals per game in their last five, keeping just one clean sheet, indicating room for improvement in defensive solidity. Their overall win ratio stands at 40%, with a stronger display at home, winning 60% of their matches at the MHPArena.
VfB Stuttgart’s position in the league is a respectable 5th, with a total of 58 points accumulated over the season. Their ability to score in almost every match is a testament to their offensive strategies, supported by a 60% rate of both teams scoring in games. However, their defensive lapses remain a concern, as they have conceded goals in 80% of their recent matches, which could prove costly against an attacking team like Bayer Leverkusen.
- DDWLW
VfB Stuttgart Suspensions & Injuries
VfB Stuttgart will have to navigate this fixture without Atakan Karazor, who is serving a one-match suspension following a red card. His absence in midfield is a significant tactical blow, as Atakan Karazor has been pivotal in breaking up opposition play and initiating Stuttgart’s attacks. Coach Sebastian Hoeneß might opt to deploy Chema Andres in a deeper role to fill the gap left by Karazor, potentially adjusting the midfield structure to maintain balance.
| Player | Suspension | Matches Remaining | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atakan Karazor | red card | 1 | Unknown |
In terms of injuries, Stuttgart faces several challenges. Ameen Al Dakhil and Finn Jeltsch, both sidelined, are expected to return in mid-May, leaving gaps particularly in defensive options. Meanwhile, the absence of Lazar Jovanovic and Justin Diehl due to back and muscle injuries respectively, limits Stuttgart’s depth in attack and midfield. The current lineup will need to compensate for these losses, with players like Angelo Stiller and Jamie Leweling stepping up to maintain their offensive and defensive duties.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Lazar Jovanovic | back injury | Mid May 2026 |
| Justin Diehl | muscle injury | Mid May 2026 |
| Finn Jeltsch | muscle injury | About 1-2 weeks |
| Ameen Al Dakhil | knee injury | Mid May 2026 |
VfB Stuttgart Key Players
Leading VfB Stuttgart’s charge is Deniz Undav, the team’s top scorer with an impressive tally of 18 goals this season. Undav’s striking prowess and clinical finishing make him a constant threat to any defence, and his ability to find spaces in the box is crucial for Stuttgart’s attacking strategy. His role as the sole forward in the expected lineup underscores his importance in breaking down Bayer Leverkusen’s defensive setup.
Supporting Undav in midfield, Angelo Stiller and Jamie Leweling are pivotal in transitioning play from defence to attack. Stiller’s vision and passing accuracy allow him to orchestrate play, while Leweling’s dynamism and dribbling skills can unsettle opposition defences. Their interplay could be vital in creating goal-scoring opportunities for Undav.
Expected lineup for VfB Stuttgart:
- Goalkeeper: Alexander Nübel
- Defence: Josha Vagnoman, Jeff Chabot, Ramon Hendriks, Luca Jaquez
- Midfield: Chema Andres, Angelo Stiller, Jamie Leweling, Bilal El Khannouss, Chris Führich
- Forward: Deniz Undav
Defensively, Josha Vagnoman stands out with his robust tackling and aerial ability, crucial in nullifying Leverkusen’s attacking threats. Alongside him, Jeff Chabot provides stability and composure at the back, essential for maintaining a solid defensive line. These players collectively shape Stuttgart’s tactical approach by balancing defensive resilience with attacking fluidity, making them key to Stuttgart’s potential success in this fixture.
VfB Stuttgart Tactics and Formation
VfB Stuttgart Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Key Forward: Deniz Undav
- Midfield Pivot: Chema Andres and Angelo Stiller
- Defensive Challenge: Conceded goals in four of the last five games
- Notable Strategy: High possession play with offensive width.
Adopting a 4-2-3-1 formation, VfB Stuttgart aim to control the game through midfield dominance and quick transitions. Chema Andres and Angelo Stiller form the midfield pivot, responsible for breaking up opposition plays and initiating attacks. This formation allows for flexibility in attack, with Jamie Leweling and Chris Führich providing width to support the lone striker, Deniz Undav.
Defensively, Stuttgart have shown vulnerability, conceding in four of their last five matches. The backline, featuring Josha Vagnoman and Jeff Chabot, must improve coordination to secure clean sheets, especially against a potent Bayer Leverkusen attack.
Offensively, Stuttgart focus on maintaining high possession and exploiting the flanks. With top scorer Deniz Undav leading the line, the team seeks to capitalise on his scoring form and create opportunities through dynamic wing play.
Bayer Leverkusen Analysis & Past Performance
Bayer Leverkusen have demonstrated a strong vein of form in recent matches, securing four wins out of their last five fixtures, including a commanding 4-1 victory over RB Leipzig. Despite a couple of setbacks against Augsburg and Bayern Munich, Leverkusen have shown resilience, bouncing back with successive wins. Their current standing in the Bundesliga is 4th, with 58 points amassed over the season.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | League | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bayer Leverkusen | RB Leipzig | 4 – 1 (Win) | Bundesliga | 2 May 2026 |
| FC Cologne | Bayer Leverkusen | 1 – 2 (Win) | Bundesliga | 25 Apr 2026 |
| Bayer Leverkusen | Bayern Munich | 0 – 2 (Loss) | DFB Cup | 22 Apr 2026 |
| Bayer Leverkusen | Augsburg | 1 – 2 (Loss) | Bundesliga | 18 Apr 2026 |
| Borussia Dortmund | Bayer Leverkusen | 0 – 1 (Win) | Bundesliga | 11 Apr 2026 |
Recent Form:
- WWLLW
In their last five games, Leverkusen have averaged 2.80 goals per match while conceding 1.40, underlining their attacking prowess spearheaded by top scorer Patrik Schick, who has netted 16 goals this season. However, defensive lapses have seen them concede in four of these encounters, with only one clean sheet to their name. Away from home, they have maintained an impressive unbeaten run in their last five matches, winning three and drawing two, which illustrates their solid away form. This balance between attack and defence will be crucial as they aim to secure a top-four finish.
Bayer Leverkusen Suspensions & Injuries
Bayer Leverkusen face the challenge of compensating for the absence of Lucas Vázquez due to a calf injury, which is expected to sideline him for about 1-2 weeks. His absence removes a versatile option from the right flank, potentially impacting their attacking dynamics and width. With Vázquez unavailable, the tactical adjustments may see increased reliance on Nathan Tella to cover the right side, demanding more from his pace and creativity.
Martin Terrier is another absentee, ruled out for the season with a hamstring injury. Although he is not part of the starting lineup, his prolonged absence limits Bayer Leverkusen’s attacking depth and reduces their options for rotation, especially in the forward department.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Martin Terrier | hamstring injury | Out for the season |
| Lucas Vázquez | calf injury | Approximately 1-2 weeks |
Without any suspensions affecting the squad, Bayer Leverkusen will look to maintain their tactical setup with minimal disruption. The core strength of the team remains intact, but the lack of depth due to these injuries might influence their ability to maintain performance levels throughout the match. Bettors may consider these factors when evaluating Bayer Leverkusen’s potential to secure a win against VfB Stuttgart.
Bayer Leverkusen Key Players
Leading Bayer Leverkusen’s attack is their top scorer, Patrik Schick, who has impressively netted 16 goals this season. Schick’s ability to find space and his clinical finishing make him an ever-present threat to the opposition’s defence. His presence at the front line is pivotal for Leverkusen’s offensive strategy, often acting as the focal point for their attacking plays.
In the midfield, Exequiel Palacios and Aleix García are instrumental for dictating the tempo of the game. Palacios’s vision and passing range enable quick transitions, while García’s defensive work rate provides a solid backbone, allowing the team to regain possession swiftly. On the flanks, Alejandro Grimaldo’s forays forward provide width and crossing opportunities, adding another dimension to their attack.
Expected lineup for Bayer Leverkusen
- Goalkeeper: Mark Flekken
- Defence: Jarell Quansah, Robert Andrich, Edmond Tapsoba
- Midfield: Montrell Culbreath, Aleix García, Exequiel Palacios, Alejandro Grimaldo, Ibrahim Maza, Nathan Tella
- Forward: Patrik Schick
Defensively, Edmond Tapsoba is a key figure, known for his composure and ability to read the game. His partnership with Robert Andrich in the backline is crucial for maintaining defensive solidity. The combination of these players not only strengthens Bayer Leverkusen’s core but also shapes their tactical approach, focusing on quick, incisive attacks and a strong defensive structure.
Bayer Leverkusen Tactics and Formation
Bayer Leverkusen Tactical Breakdown:
- Formation: 3-4-2-1
- Key Forward: Patrik Schick
- Midfield Engine: Exequiel Palacios and Aleix García
- Defensive Record: One clean sheet in the last five games
- Notable Strategy: Utilises wing-backs for attacking width and defensive cover.
Bayer Leverkusen’s 3-4-2-1 formation provides a balanced approach between attack and defence. The three-man defence, led by Edmond Tapsoba, offers a solid base, while wing-backs Montrell Culbreath and Alejandro Grimaldo are crucial for providing width and supporting both offensive and defensive phases.
In midfield, Exequiel Palacios and Aleix García control the tempo, offering creativity and stability. Their ability to transition from defence to attack is pivotal, especially when linking up with Ibrahim Maza and Nathan Tella, who operate behind the lone striker, Patrik Schick.
Offensively, Leverkusen rely on the clinical finishing of Patrik Schick, their top scorer with 16 goals. The team has shown a preference for exploiting spaces with quick transitions and utilising the pace of their wing-backs. Despite a strong offensive output, their defensive record shows room for improvement, with only one clean sheet in their last five fixtures.
VfB Stuttgart vs Bayer Leverkusen H2H Record
In the head-to-head record between VfB Stuttgart and Bayer Leverkusen, it’s clear that Leverkusen have been dominant, securing 31 wins compared to Stuttgart’s 9, with 11 matches ending in a draw. The last encounter saw Stuttgart pull off an impressive 4-1 victory away at Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, showcasing their potential to upset the odds.
The last time Stuttgart hosted this fixture in the Bundesliga, it was a thrilling affair, but they narrowly lost 4-3 to Leverkusen. This suggests that while Stuttgart can be competitive at home, Leverkusen often find a way to edge them out.
| Home Team | Away Team | Result | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bayer Leverkusen | VfB Stuttgart | 1 – 4 | Bundesliga | 10/01/2026 |
| VfB Stuttgart | Bayer Leverkusen | 3 – 4 | Bundesliga | 16/03/2025 |
| Bayer Leverkusen | VfB Stuttgart | 0 – 0 | Bundesliga | 01/11/2024 |
| Bayer Leverkusen | VfB Stuttgart | 2 – 2 (Penalty shoot-out: 4 – 3) | Super Cup | 17/08/2024 |
| Bayer Leverkusen | VfB Stuttgart | 2 – 2 | Bundesliga | 27/04/2024 |
