Hoffenheim vs Bayer Leverkusen Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Saturday, 17 January

Hoffenheim will face Bayer Leverkusen in an intriguing Bundesliga clash at the PreZero Arena on Saturday, 17 January. This match is set to be a key fixture in the league, with both teams eager to secure valuable points. Hoffenheim, playing at home, will be looking to use their familiarity with the PreZero Arena to their advantage against the visitors.

Bayer Leverkusen, renowned for their potent attacking play, will aim to challenge Hoffenheim’s defence and continue their pursuit of a top spot in the Bundesliga standings. As both teams have displayed competitive form this season, this encounter promises to be closely contested, making it an exciting prospect for fans and punters alike. Watch closely to see how the tactics unfold in this pivotal match.

Hoffenheim vs Bayer Leverkusen Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
More than 3.5 goals	2.5

Given the performances and defensive records of both teams, we predict a high-scoring match. Hoffenheim and Bayer Leverkusen both concede an average of 1.4 goals per game, highlighting vulnerabilities at the back. Therefore, our recommended betting tip is ‘Both Teams to Score’ (BTTS).

• Hoffenheim have scored in 88% of their home matches this season, demonstrating strong attacking prowess.
• Both teams have conceded an average of 1.4 goals per game, underlining defensive weaknesses.
• The open nature of this match suggests plenty of goal-scoring opportunities.

Betting Odds

Hoffenheim and Bayer Leverkusen are closely matched in the betting markets, with Hoffenheim slightly favoured at 2.5 and Leverkusen just behind at 2.55. The draw is priced at 3.76, indicating a competitive fixture at the PreZero Arena.

Betting Tip	Odds
Hoffenheim to win	2.5
Draw	3.76
Bayer Leverkusen to win	2.55

For those considering a wager, the odds suggest a tight contest. The over 2.5 goals market is worth considering, given both teams’ attacking strength in the Bundesliga this season.

Hoffenheim Analysis & Recent Performance

Hoffenheim approach this fixture in solid form, particularly at home where they have secured five consecutive wins. Their recent home triumph over Borussia Mönchengladbach, with a commanding 5-1 scoreline, highlights both their attacking prowess and defensive resilience in front of their supporters.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Hoffenheim	Borussia Mönchengladbach	5 – 1 (Win)	Bundesliga	14 Jan 2026
SC Heerenveen	Hoffenheim	0 – 0 (Draw)	Club Friendlies	6 Jan 2026
VfB Stuttgart	Hoffenheim	0 – 0 (Draw)	Bundesliga	20 Dec 2025
Hoffenheim	Hamburger SV	4 – 1 (Win)	Bundesliga	13 Dec 2025
Borussia Dortmund	Hoffenheim	2 – 0 (Loss)	Bundesliga	7 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• WDWL

In their last five games, Hoffenheim have registered three wins, one draw, and one loss, scoring an average of 2.40 goals per match while conceding just 0.80. Notably, they have kept two clean sheets during this period, illustrating their defensive capabilities. With a current league standing of 5th, Hoffenheim have collected 30 points, boasting a commendable win ratio of 60% over the last five fixtures.

Hoffenheim Suspensions & Injuries

Hoffenheim face challenges with the absence of Koki Machida, Adam Hložek, and Cole Campbell due to injuries. Machida’s cruciate ligament injury rules him out until early May 2026, which is a significant blow to their defensive options. Meanwhile, Hložek’s calf injury and Campbell’s ankle problem are expected to keep them sidelined until early and mid-February 2026, respectively. This limits Hoffenheim’s attacking flexibility, particularly given Hložek’s influence in offensive transitions.

The absence of Adam Hložek and Cole Campbell will likely see coach Christian Ilzer rely heavily on available midfielders such as Alexander Prass and Fisnik Asllani to maintain creative momentum. Tim Lemperle, starting up front, will need to step up in Hložek’s absence to ensure Hoffenheim remain potent in attack against Bayer Leverkusen.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Koki Machida	Cruciate ligament injury	Early May 2026
Adam Hložek	Calf injury	Early February 2026
Cole Campbell	Ankle injury	Mid February 2026

With no significant suspensions, Hoffenheim can focus on tactical adjustments to cope with the injuries. The team may opt for a slightly more conservative approach, prioritising defensive solidity given Machida’s unavailability. This could influence betting markets, as Hoffenheim’s attacking options are somewhat restricted, potentially impacting their ability to score freely.

Hoffenheim Key Players

Hoffenheim’s attacking threat is led by Fisnik Asllani, who currently tops the team’s scoring charts with 6 goals. Asllani, often deployed in midfield, has a knack for breaking into the box, making him a dual threat as both playmaker and finisher. His ability to link up with Andrej Kramarić, another key figure in midfield, could be pivotal in breaking down Bayer Leverkusen’s defence. Kramarić’s experience and vision make him an essential part of Hoffenheim’s tactical setup.

The defensive line is marshalled by Ozan Kabak, whose physical presence and aerial ability are crucial in keeping opposing forwards at bay. Alongside him, Vladimír Coufal offers stability and experience, vital in both defensive duties and initiating attacks from the back. The tactical impact of these players lies in their ability to maintain a solid defensive structure while providing the foundation for counter-attacks.

Expected lineup for Hoffenheim

• Goalkeeper: Oliver Baumann
• Defenders: Vladimír Coufal, Robin Hranáč, Bernardo, Ozan Kabak
• Midfielders: Leon Avdullahu, Wouter Burger, Alexander Prass, Fisnik Asllani, Andrej Kramarić
• Forward: Tim Lemperle

Hoffenheim Tactics and Formation

Hoffenheim Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Tim Lemperle
• Midfield Pivot: Leon Avdullahu and Wouter Burger
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession and efficient use of width.

Hoffenheim’s 4-2-3-1 formation is designed to maximise their strengths in midfield and attack. With Leon Avdullahu and Wouter Burger as the central midfield duo, they provide both defensive cover and the ability to transition quickly into attack. Andrej Kramarić, playing in the advanced midfield role, is pivotal in linking the midfield with the forward line, using his vision to create opportunities.

Defensively, the back four, comprising Vladimír Coufal, Robin Hranáč, Bernardo, and Ozan Kabak, offers stability and resilience. This setup has contributed to Hoffenheim keeping two clean sheets in their last five matches, underlining their defensive capabilities.

Offensively, Hoffenheim focus on maintaining high possession, as shown by their 66% possession in the recent 5-1 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach. This control, combined with the width provided by wingers like Fisnik Asllani, allows them to stretch opponents and create scoring opportunities for Tim Lemperle.

Bayer Leverkusen Analysis & Recent Performance

Bayer Leverkusen’s recent Bundesliga form has been inconsistent, marked by two wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last five matches. Notable performances include a 3-1 away win over RB Leipzig and a commanding 2-0 home victory against FC Köln. However, they suffered a 1-4 home defeat to VfB Stuttgart, highlighting some defensive vulnerabilities.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Bayer Leverkusen	VfB Stuttgart	1 – 4 (Loss)	Bundesliga	10 Jan, 2026
RB Leipzig	Bayer Leverkusen	1 – 3 (Win)	Bundesliga	20 Dec, 2025
Bayer Leverkusen	FC Köln	2 – 0 (Win)	Bundesliga	13 Dec, 2025
Bayer Leverkusen	Newcastle	2 – 2 (Draw)	Champions League	10 Dec, 2025
Augsburg	Bayer Leverkusen	2 – 0 (Loss)	Bundesliga	6 Dec, 2025

Recent Form:

• LWWDL

Bayer Leverkusen’s attack has averaged 1.60 goals per game in their last five matches, with Patrik Schick being a pivotal figure, having scored 6 goals this season. Defensively, they’ve conceded 1.80 goals per match during the same period, managing only one clean sheet. Their away form has been stronger, with 4 wins and 1 loss, boasting an impressive 0.80 win ratio on the road, indicating a propensity to perform better away from the BayArena.

Bayer Leverkusen Suspensions & Injuries

Bayer Leverkusen face a few injury concerns ahead of their clash with Hoffenheim, with Exequiel Palacios, Axel Tape, and Edmond Tapsoba currently sidelined. Palacios and Tape are dealing with groin and muscle injuries respectively, both expected to return by late January 2026. Tapsoba, recovering from a muscle injury, is targeting an early February comeback. Their absence could impact Leverkusen’s midfield and defensive solidity, especially given the tactical reliance on a compact 3-4-2-1 formation.

The absence of Palacios in midfield could see Arthur and Aleix García tasked with additional responsibilities to maintain the team’s creative output. Defensively, Robert Andrich may need to step up in Tapsoba’s stead, ensuring stability at the back. Leverkusen’s squad depth will be tested, but the presence of players such as Nathan Tella and Malik Tillman offers a promising attacking threat.

Coach Kasper Hjulmand may have to tweak his tactical approach slightly, potentially focusing more on a counter-attacking strategy to mitigate the impact of these key absences. The team’s adaptability will be crucial in maintaining their competitive edge in this Bundesliga fixture.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Exequiel Palacios	Groin injury	Late January 2026
Axel Tape	Muscle injury	Late January 2026
Edmond Tapsoba	Muscle injury	Early February 2026

Bayer Leverkusen Key Players

Bayer Leverkusen’s attack is led by their top scorer Patrik Schick, who has found the net 6 times this season. Schick’s prowess in front of goal makes him a constant threat, and his ability to find space and exploit defensive weaknesses is crucial for Leverkusen’s attacking strategy. His role as the primary forward ensures he will be pivotal in breaking down Hoffenheim’s defence.

In midfield, Arthur and Aleix García are key figures, providing both creativity and stability. Arthur’s vision and passing range will be essential in dictating the tempo, while García’s work rate and defensive contributions help maintain balance. On the flanks, Nathan Tella’s pace and Malik Tillman’s dribbling skills add a dynamic edge to the team’s offensive play, making them significant assets out wide.

Expected lineup for Bayer Leverkusen:

• Goalkeeper: Mark Flekken
• Defence: Jarell Quansah, Robert Andrich, Jeanuel Belocian
• Midfield: Equi Fernandez, Arthur, Aleix García, Malik Tillman, Nathan Tella, Alejandro Grimaldo
• Forward: Martin Terrier

At the back, Robert Andrich’s leadership and positional awareness are vital in organising the defence. His ability to read the game and intercept opposition plays can thwart Hoffenheim’s attacking efforts. Additionally, goalkeeper Mark Flekken’s shot-stopping ability provides a solid last line of defence. Collectively, these players form the backbone of Bayer Leverkusen’s tactical approach, emphasising a blend of attacking flair and defensive resilience.

Bayer Leverkusen Tactics and Formation

Bayer Leverkusen Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-2-1
• Key Forward: Martin Terrier
• Midfield Dynamics: Arthur and Aleix García
• Defensive Formation: Three-man backline
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on wide play and quick transitions.

Bayer Leverkusen’s 3-4-2-1 formation is designed to maximise their attacking potential while maintaining defensive stability. With Martin Terrier leading the line, the team relies on the creative prowess of Arthur and Aleix García in midfield to orchestrate play and support the attack.

Defensively, the three-man backline of Jarell Quansah, Robert Andrich, and Jeanuel Belocian aims to provide robust coverage and facilitate build-up play from the back. The absence of Patrik Schick due to injury necessitates a tactical adjustment, focusing more on contributions from midfielders and wing-backs.

Offensively, Leverkusen emphasise wide play, leveraging the pace and crossing ability of Nathan Tella and Alejandro Grimaldo on the wings. This setup aids in creating scoring opportunities and quick transitions, which are crucial for exploiting defensive gaps in the opposition’s setup.

Hoffenheim vs Bayer Leverkusen Head-to-Head Record

In their head-to-head record, Bayer Leverkusen have been the dominant side with 21 wins out of 36 encounters, while Hoffenheim have managed 9 victories and there have been 6 draws. The most recent clash saw Hoffenheim pull off a surprise 2-1 win away at Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, showcasing their potential to upset the odds.

The last time these two met at the PreZero Arena, Bayer Leverkusen emerged victorious with a 3-2 win in November 2023. This fixture has often been high-scoring, with Leverkusen generally holding the upper hand, especially in recent seasons.

Home Side	Away Side	Score	League	Date
Bayer Leverkusen	Hoffenheim	1 – 2	Bundesliga	2025-08-23
Bayer Leverkusen	Hoffenheim	3 – 1	Bundesliga	2025-02-02
Hoffenheim	Bayer Leverkusen	1 – 4	Bundesliga	2024-09-14
Bayer Leverkusen	Hoffenheim	2 – 1	Bundesliga	2024-03-30
Hoffenheim	Bayer Leverkusen	2 – 3	Bundesliga	2023-11-04