Eintracht Frankfurt vs Bayer Leverkusen Prediction & Match Preview – Saturday, 31 January

Eintracht Frankfurt vs Bayer Leverkusen Prediction & Match Preview for Saturday, 31 January. This Bundesliga clash promises to be an intriguing encounter as both teams meet at Deutsche Bank Park. Eintracht Frankfurt, playing at home, will be eager to use their familiar surroundings to gain an advantage over Bayer Leverkusen. The match is set to kick off at 15:30, adding to the excitement of this weekend’s football action.

Both teams have shown competitive form in the Bundesliga, making this fixture significant for their standings. Eintracht Frankfurt will aim to capitalise on their home advantage, while Bayer Leverkusen will look to secure crucial points on the road. With both teams eyeing a strong finish in the league, this match could have implications for their positions in the table. Fans can expect a well-contested game as these German sides face off.

Eintracht Frankfurt vs Bayer Leverkusen Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Bayer Leverkusen to Win	2.27

Given Bayer Leverkusen’s dominant head-to-head record against Eintracht Frankfurt and the current form of both teams, our recommended betting tip is an away victory for Leverkusen. Despite recent inconsistencies, Leverkusen’s superior technical ability and tactical discipline usually shine through against Frankfurt, who are missing key midfielders and facing challenging weather conditions.

• Bayer Leverkusen have won all of their last five matches against Eintracht Frankfurt, including a 4-1 victory in March 2025.
• Eintracht Frankfurt will be without key midfielders Ellyes Skhiri, Sebastian Rode, and Jens Petter Hauge, which could disrupt their balance and creativity.
• Leverkusen have scored in 75% of their away matches this season, showcasing their attacking capability even on the road.

Betting Odds

Looking at the match odds for Eintracht Frankfurt hosting Bayer Leverkusen, it is clear the bookmakers are leaning towards an away win, with Leverkusen priced at 2.27. However, Frankfurt’s odds of 2.88 suggest they should not be underestimated, especially on home turf at Deutsche Bank Park.

Betting Tip	Odds
Eintracht Frankfurt to win	2.88
Draw	3.66
Bayer Leverkusen to win	2.27

The draw, sitting at 3.66, could be tempting for those expecting a closely fought Bundesliga encounter. With both teams known for their attacking prowess, punters might also find value in the over 2.5 goals market.

Eintracht Frankfurt Analysis & Past Performance

Eintracht Frankfurt’s recent form has been less than ideal, as evidenced by their current run of five matches without a win, including four losses and a single draw. In their most recent fixture, a disappointing 0-2 defeat at home to Tottenham in the Champions League, their attacking line was largely ineffective, managing only three shots on target and failing to score.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Eintracht Frankfurt	Tottenham	0 – 2 (Loss)	Champions League	28 Jan 2026
Eintracht Frankfurt	Hoffenheim	1 – 3 (Loss)	Bundesliga	24 Jan 2026
Qarabag FK	Eintracht Frankfurt	3 – 2 (Loss)	Champions League	21 Jan 2026
Werder Bremen	Eintracht Frankfurt	3 – 3 (Draw)	Bundesliga	16 Jan 2026
VfB Stuttgart	Eintracht Frankfurt	3 – 2 (Loss)	Bundesliga	13 Jan 2026

Recent Form:
The team has struggled defensively, conceding an average of 2.80 goals per game over their last five matches, and they have not secured a clean sheet during this period. Offensively, they have averaged 1.60 goals per game, with Jonathan Burkardt being their top scorer this season, netting eight times. Despite showing some attacking promise, their inability to maintain defensive solidity has been a significant weakness.

Home and Away Performance:

• LLLDL

At home, Frankfurt has only won one of their last five matches, drawing two and losing two. Their home win ratio stands at 0.20, highlighting a struggle to capitalise on home advantage. Currently sitting in 8th place with 27 points, Eintracht Frankfurt’s performance this season has not matched their previous campaign’s high standards, where they finished third. Their form indicates a need for tactical adjustments, particularly in defence, to halt their winless streak.

Eintracht Frankfurt Suspensions & Injuries

Eintracht Frankfurt faces some notable challenges due to injuries as they prepare for the upcoming clash against Bayer Leverkusen. The absence of Jonathan Burkardt due to a calf injury, along with Michy Batshuayi’s broken ankle, significantly impacts the attacking options available to coach Dennis Schmitt. With Burkardt expected back in early February and Batshuayi sidelined until April, Frankfurt’s forward line might lack depth and dynamism.

Midfield and defensive options are also affected, with Elias Baum nursing a medial collateral ligament injury, and Younes Ebnoutalib out with a knee injury. Both players are expected to return in late February and early March, respectively. Timothy Chandler and Can Uzun’s muscle injuries, with mid-February return dates, further strain the squad’s depth, particularly in the wing-back positions, where their versatility is often crucial.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Jonathan Burkardt	Calf Injury	Early February 2026
Michy Batshuayi	Broken Ankle	Early April 2026
Elias Baum	Medial Collateral Ligament Injury	Late February 2026
Younes Ebnoutalib	Knee Injury	Early March 2026
Timothy Chandler	Muscle Injury	Mid February 2026
Can Uzun	Muscle Injury	Mid February 2026

In terms of tactical adjustments, the 3-4-2-1 formation might see some tweaks, particularly in how the midfield supports the lone striker Arnaud Kalimuendo-Muinga. The absence of key players could force a more conservative approach, relying on a solid midfield block to counter Bayer Leverkusen’s attacking threats. This lack of depth might also affect betting markets, potentially tilting odds in favour of the visitors.

Eintracht Frankfurt Key Players

Eintracht Frankfurt’s tactical approach is heavily influenced by key players in their lineup. Arnaud Kalimuendo-Muinga will spearhead the attack, and his presence as a forward is pivotal, especially in the absence of their top scorer Jonathan Burkardt, who is currently sidelined. Kalimuendo-Muinga’s ability to exploit defensive gaps with his pace and finishing skills could be crucial against Bayer Leverkusen. In the midfield, Ritsu Doan stands out as a playmaker, orchestrating play and providing the creative spark needed to unlock defences. His vision and ability to deliver incisive passes make him a constant threat.

Defensively, Robin Koch is anticipated to be a key figure. His experience and leadership at the back will be vital in organising the defence and neutralising Leverkusen’s attacking threats. The combination of Koch’s aerial prowess and tactical awareness ensures a solid defensive foundation. Additionally, Ellyes Skhiri’s role as a holding midfielder will be essential in breaking up opposition play and transitioning the team from defence to attack.

Expected lineup for Eintracht Frankfurt:

• Goalkeeper: Kaua
• Defence: Nnamdi Collins, Robin Koch, Aurele Amenda
• Midfield: Fares Chaibi, Nathaniel Brown, Ritsu Doan, Hugo Larsson, Rasmus Nissen, Ellyes Skhiri
• Forward: Arnaud Kalimuendo-Muinga

Eintracht Frankfurt Tactics and Formation

Eintracht Frankfurt Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-2-1
• Key Forward: Arnaud Kalimuendo-Muinga
• Midfield Pivot: Nathaniel Brown and Ellyes Skhiri
• Defensive Strength: Struggling to maintain clean sheets
• Notable Strategy: Utilisation of wing-backs in offensive transitions.

Eintracht Frankfurt’s 3-4-2-1 formation is designed to offer flexibility in both defence and attack. The back three, consisting of Nnamdi Collins, Robin Koch, and Aurele Amenda, provides a solid base, though recent performances have seen them struggle to maintain clean sheets, as evidenced by their defensive record.

In midfield, Nathaniel Brown and Ellyes Skhiri form a crucial pivot that balances defensive coverage with playmaking responsibilities. The wing-backs, Ritsu Doan and Fares Chaibi, play a vital role in transitioning from defence to attack, providing width and supporting the lone striker, Arnaud Kalimuendo-Muinga.

Offensively, Frankfurt’s strategy heavily relies on the dynamic movement of their wing-backs and the creativity of their attacking midfielders. Despite a challenging run of form with no wins in their last five matches, the team’s tactical setup is designed to exploit spaces on the flanks and maximise counter-attacking opportunities.

Bayer Leverkusen Analysis & Past Performance

Bayer Leverkusen’s recent form has been a tale of two halves, with an inconsistent run in their last five matches, collecting two wins and three losses. Their most recent fixtures include a convincing 3-0 triumph over Villarreal in the Champions League, which highlights their potential in high-stakes games.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Bayer Leverkusen	Villarreal	3 – 0 (Win)	Champions League	Jan 28, 2026
Bayer Leverkusen	Werder Bremen	1 – 0 (Win)	Bundesliga	Jan 24, 2026
Olympiacos	Bayer Leverkusen	2 – 0 (Loss)	Champions League	Jan 20, 2026
Hoffenheim	Bayer Leverkusen	1 – 0 (Loss)	Bundesliga	Jan 17, 2026
Bayer Leverkusen	VfB Stuttgart	1 – 4 (Loss)	Bundesliga	Jan 10, 2026

Recent Form:

• WWLLL

In the last five matches, Bayer Leverkusen has averaged 1.00 goals per game while conceding 1.40 goals on average. This defensive fragility has been evident, with only two clean sheets secured during this period. Their away form has been particularly concerning, with a win ratio of just 40% in their last five away games. Despite these challenges, Patrik Schick remains a critical asset in their attacking lineup, having netted six goals this season. Leverkusen’s overall league standing is sixth, with 32 points, reflecting a mid-top table performance.

Bayer Leverkusen Suspensions & Injuries

The absence of Loïc Badé due to suspension is a significant blow for Bayer Leverkusen’s defensive setup. His suspension for accumulating yellow cards leaves a gap in the backline, requiring Jarell Quansah and Robert Andrich to step up. The defensive duo will need to maintain a solid performance against Eintracht Frankfurt’s attacking threats to mitigate Badé’s absence.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Loïc Badé	Yellow cards	1	Unknown

Injuries to key players such as Edmond Tapsoba and Nathan Tella could impact Bayer Leverkusen’s tactical flexibility. Tapsoba’s muscle injury leaves him doubtful, which might necessitate a reshuffle in the defensive formation. Nathan Tella’s foot injury, sidelining him until mid-February, limits options in the attacking third, potentially increasing reliance on Jonas Hofmann and Patrik Schick for offensive creativity.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Edmond Tapsoba	Muscle injury	Doubtful
Nathan Tella	Foot injury	Mid February 2026
Mark Flekken	Knee injury	Early March 2026
Eliesse Ben Seghir	Ankle injury	Mid February 2026

The tactical adjustments required due to these unavailabilities might see Bayer Leverkusen adopting a more cautious approach. With Mark Flekken out until early March and Eliesse Ben Seghir not expected back until mid-February, depth is a concern, particularly in maintaining the high-pressing style that coach Kasper Hjulmand prefers. These absences could influence betting markets, as Bayer Leverkusen’s defensive and attacking depth are tested against a competitive Frankfurt side.

Bayer Leverkusen Key Players

Patrik Schick stands out as Bayer Leverkusen’s top scorer with six goals this season, bringing a clinical edge to their attack. His ability to find space and finish with precision makes him a constant threat to any defence. Schick’s movement off the ball and aerial prowess make him a vital component of Leverkusen’s offensive strategy.

Supporting Schick in attack, Jonas Hofmann and Lucas Vázquez in midfield are instrumental for their creativity and tactical impact. Hofmann’s vision and passing range allow him to orchestrate play, while Vázquez provides width and crosses that can unlock defences. Alejandro Grimaldo’s contributions from midfield add depth to their attacking options, often joining the attack and providing additional goal-scoring threats.

Expected lineup for Bayer Leverkusen

• Goalkeeper: Janis Blaswich
• Defenders: Jarell Quansah, Robert Andrich, Axel Tape-Kobrissa
• Midfielders: Aleix García, Lucas Vázquez, Ibrahim Maza, Jonas Hofmann, Ernest Poku, Alejandro Grimaldo
• Forward: Patrik Schick

Bayer Leverkusen Tactics and Formation

Bayer Leverkusen Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-2-1
• Key Forward: Patrik Schick
• Midfield Pivot: Aleix García and Lucas Vázquez
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Quick transitions and wing play.

The 3-4-2-1 formation allows Bayer Leverkusen to adopt a balanced approach in both defence and attack. With Aleix García and Lucas Vázquez in central midfield, the team can effectively distribute the ball while maintaining defensive coverage. The wing-backs, Jonas Hofmann and Alejandro Grimaldo, are crucial for providing width and supporting both defence and attack.

Defensively, the back three of Jarell Quansah, Robert Andrich, and Axel Tape-Kobrissa provide a solid foundation, contributing to the team’s ability to maintain two clean sheets in their last five outings. The formation’s structure supports quick recovery and robust defensive transitions.

Offensively, Leverkusen leverages Patrik Schick’s prowess as the lone striker, supported by creative midfielders Ernest Poku and Ibrahim Maza. The tactical emphasis on quick transitions and utilising the flanks has been effective, as seen in their recent 3-0 victory over Villarreal, where they dominated possession and created numerous chances.

Eintracht Frankfurt vs Bayer Leverkusen Head-to-Head Record

In their head-to-head record, Bayer Leverkusen have the upper hand with 28 wins compared to Eintracht Frankfurt’s 14, alongside three draws. The last encounter saw Leverkusen secure a 3-1 victory at home in the Bundesliga. Historically, Leverkusen have been dominant in this fixture, particularly in recent meetings.

When these teams last met at Deutsche Bank Park, it was a tough day for Frankfurt as they suffered a 4-1 defeat in March 2025. Leverkusen’s ability to score freely against Frankfurt has been a recurring theme, with the visitors consistently finding the net.

Home Team	Away Team	Final Score	League	Date
Bayer Leverkusen	Eintracht Frankfurt	3 – 1	Bundesliga	2025-09-12
Eintracht Frankfurt	Bayer Leverkusen	1 – 4	Bundesliga	2025-03-01
Bayer Leverkusen	Eintracht Frankfurt	2 – 1	Bundesliga	2024-10-19
Eintracht Frankfurt	Bayer Leverkusen	1 – 5	Bundesliga	2024-05-05
Bayer Leverkusen	Eintracht Frankfurt	3 – 0	Bundesliga	2023-12-17