Bayer Leverkusen vs Werder Bremen Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips, Saturday, 24 January

Bayer Leverkusen vs Werder Bremen Prediction, Match Preview and Betting Tips sets the stage for an intriguing Bundesliga clash this Saturday, 24 January. The match takes place at the BayArena, where Bayer Leverkusen will host Werder Bremen in a key fixture. Both teams are looking to make significant strides in the league standings, and this encounter promises to be a pivotal moment in their respective campaigns.

Bayer Leverkusen, playing at home, will aim to leverage their familiarity with the BayArena to secure a crucial victory. Meanwhile, Werder Bremen will be eager to upset the hosts and gain valuable points on the road. With both teams having much at stake, this Bundesliga matchup is set to offer an exciting contest for fans and bettors alike.

Bayer Leverkusen vs Werder Bremen Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Bayer Leverkusen -1.50 in 1st half (AH)	4.55

Based on recent form and match dynamics, our recommended betting tip is to back Bayer Leverkusen -1.5 Asian Handicap in the first half. Leverkusen’s aggressive start and Werder Bremen’s defensive struggles make this a strong option.

• Leverkusen’s tendency to start matches with a high tempo and early goals gives them a significant advantage.
• Werder Bremen’s poor away form and tendency to concede early under pressure make it likely they will be behind at half-time.
• Leverkusen’s home dominance and attacking quality suggest they can secure a comfortable lead before the break.

Leverkusen’s tendency to start matches with a high tempo and early goals gives them a significant advantage.

Werder Bremen’s poor away form and tendency to concede early under pressure make it likely they will be behind at half-time.

Leverkusen’s home dominance and attacking quality suggest they can secure a comfortable lead before the break.

Betting Odds

Bayer Leverkusen are stepping onto the pitch as strong favourites with odds of 1.6, reflecting their solid form and home advantage at the BayArena. Meanwhile, Werder Bremen are seen as underdogs with odds of 4.97, but they could offer a surprise for those willing to take a punt.

Betting Tip	Odds
Bayer Leverkusen to win	1.6
Draw	4.29
Werder Bremen to win	4.97

The draw is priced at 4.29, suggesting that while Leverkusen are expected to dominate, there’s still room for an upset. Punters might also look at the over 2.5 goals market, given both teams’ attacking potential.

Bayer Leverkusen Analysis & Past Performance

Bayer Leverkusen’s recent form has been a mixture of highs and lows, reflected in their last five games, where they have secured two wins and suffered three defeats. Their last two matches ended in losses, including a 0-2 setback against Olympiacos in the Champions League. This recent dip has shown vulnerabilities, especially in their defensive setup, conceding an average of 1.60 goals per game across the last five fixtures.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Olympiacos	Bayer Leverkusen	2 – 0 (Defeat)	Champions League	20 Jan 2026
Hoffenheim	Bayer Leverkusen	1 – 0 (Defeat)	Bundesliga	17 Jan 2026
Bayer Leverkusen	VfB Stuttgart	1 – 4 (Defeat)	Bundesliga	10 Jan 2026
RB Leipzig	Bayer Leverkusen	1 – 3 (Victory)	Bundesliga	20 Dec 2025
Bayer Leverkusen	FC Köln	2 – 0 (Victory)	Bundesliga	13 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• LLLWW

Bayer Leverkusen’s attacking prowess is undeniable, averaging 1.20 goals per match in their last five games, with Patrik Schick leading the charge with six goals this season. However, maintaining just one clean sheet during this period highlights a defensive concern. At home, they have recorded three wins and two losses in their last five matches, showcasing a 60% win ratio at the BayArena, but consistency remains an issue. Currently sitting in sixth place with 29 points, Bayer Leverkusen will need to tighten their defence and capitalise on their attacking opportunities to climb the Bundesliga standings.

Bayer Leverkusen Suspensions & Injuries

Bayer Leverkusen are currently grappling with a few injury concerns that could influence their performance against Werder Bremen. Edmond Tapsoba’s muscle injury means that the defensive line will need to adapt, potentially putting more pressure on Robert Andrich and Loïc Badé to maintain solidity at the back. Meanwhile, Nathan Tella’s foot injury and Eliesse Ben Seghir’s ankle problem could limit options in the attacking midfield, requiring players like Malik Tillman and Ernest Poku to step up and fill the creative void.

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

The absence of Mark Flekken due to a knee injury is another blow, though Janis Blaswich is expected to continue as the first-choice goalkeeper. This continuity in goalkeeping could provide some stability amid the defensive reshuffles. With the current formation being a 3-4-2-1, Bayer Leverkusen might need to adjust their tactical approach slightly, perhaps placing a greater emphasis on midfield control to compensate for the defensive absences.

These injuries could have significant betting implications, as Leverkusen’s depth will be tested. The impact on team cohesion and performance could sway odds, especially if Werder Bremen exploit these vulnerabilities. However, the presence of key players like Patrik Schick ensures that Bayer Leverkusen still pose a considerable threat in attack, which could influence match outcomes.

Bayer Leverkusen Key Players

Patrik Schick stands out as Bayer Leverkusen’s top scorer this season with six goals. His presence as the lone forward in the lineup is crucial for breaking down Werder Bremen’s defence. Schick’s clinical finishing and ability to find space make him a constant threat in the attacking third. His partnership with midfielders such as Aleix García and Malik Tillman will be vital in creating scoring opportunities.

In midfield, the creativity of Aleix García and the dynamic play of Malik Tillman provide the team with both stability and attacking impetus. García’s passing range and vision allow Leverkusen to transition quickly from defence to attack, while Tillman’s ability to drive forward with the ball adds an additional layer to their offensive play. Defensively, Loïc Badé’s presence will be essential to maintaining a solid backline, providing strength and composure under pressure.

Expected lineup for Bayer Leverkusen

• Goalkeeper: Janis Blaswich
• Defenders: Robert Andrich, Loïc Badé, Jarell Quansah
• Midfielders: Aleix García, Arthur, Equi Fernández, Malik Tillman, Ernest Poku, Alejandro Grimaldo
• Forward: Patrik Schick

Overall, the tactical impact of these key players will likely shape Bayer Leverkusen’s approach. Schick’s goal-scoring ability, combined with the midfield’s creativity and a solid defensive foundation, could be the determining factors in their bid to secure a win against Werder Bremen. Their strengths lie in quick transitions and exploiting spaces, which could be pivotal in overcoming the opposition.

Bayer Leverkusen Tactics and Formation

Bayer Leverkusen Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-2-1
• Key Forward: Patrik Schick
• Midfield Engine: Aleix García and Arthur
• Defensive Setup: Three-man backline with Andrich, Badé, and Quansah
• Notable Strategy: High possession and dynamic wing play.

Leverkusen’s 3-4-2-1 configuration is designed to enhance their ball control and offensive versatility. With Aleix García and Arthur orchestrating from the midfield, they ensure fluid transitions and maintain high possession rates, as evidenced by their 62% possession in recent matches.

The defensive trio of Robert Andrich, Loïc Badé, and Jarell Quansah provides a robust backline, though recent performances have seen them struggle, conceding eight goals in their last five games. The absence of key defender Edmond Tapsoba due to injury necessitates tactical vigilance.

Offensively, Patrik Schick remains a pivotal figure, supported by the creative prowess of Ernest Poku and Alejandro Grimaldo on the flanks. Leverkusen’s strategy often involves exploiting wide areas, with Grimaldo’s dynamic wing play creating numerous chances, although consistency remains a challenge.

Werder Bremen Analysis & Past Performance

Werder Bremen have been struggling to find consistent form, with their recent performances yielding no victories in their last five matches across all competitions. Their recent results include a 3-3 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt and a heavy 0-3 defeat to Borussia Dortmund.

Home Side	Away Side	Score	League	Date
Werder Bremen	Eintracht Frankfurt	3 – 3 (Draw)	Bundesliga	16 Jan 2026
Borussia Dortmund	Werder Bremen	3 – 0 (Loss)	Bundesliga	13 Jan 2026
St. Pauli	Werder Bremen	0 – 0 (Draw)	Friendly	4 Jan 2026
Augsburg	Werder Bremen	0 – 0 (Draw)	Bundesliga	20 Dec 2025
Werder Bremen	VfB Stuttgart	0 – 4 (Loss)	Bundesliga	14 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• DLDDL

Bremen’s attacking efficiency has been underwhelming, averaging only 0.60 goals per game in their last five matches. Defensively, they have conceded an average of 2.00 goals per game, which has impacted their ability to secure wins. Notably, they have managed to keep two clean sheets, which is a positive indicator of potential defensive resilience. Their away form mirrors their overall struggles, as they have not won any of their last five away fixtures, drawing two and losing three.

Werder Bremen Suspensions & Injuries

Werder Bremen face a significant challenge with several key players sidelined due to injuries. Mitchell Weiser’s cruciate ligament injury rules him out until late March, which could affect the team’s defensive solidity and width in attack. The absence of Niklas Stark and Maximilian Wöber, both expected back in early February, further strains Bremen’s defensive options, potentially forcing coach Horst Steffen to rely on less experienced players or adjust formations to cope with these losses.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Mitchell Weiser	Cruciate ligament injury	Late March 2026
Salim Musah	Thigh injury	Early February 2026
Felix Agu	Ankle injury	About a week
Victor Boniface	Knee surgery	Mid May 2026
Maximilian Wöber	Hip injury	Early February 2026
Niklas Stark	Hip injury	Early February 2026
Amos Pieper	Muscle injury	Mid February 2026
Yukinari Sugawara	Ankle injury	Late February 2026

Salim Musah and Felix Agu are also unavailable, with Musah’s thigh injury keeping him out until early February and Agu’s ankle injury expected to heal in about a week. This limits Bremen’s options on the flanks and could necessitate a more conservative approach against Bayer Leverkusen, focusing on a compact defensive setup to mitigate the absence of key defenders. Victor Boniface’s knee surgery sidelines him until mid-May, further reducing attacking depth.

Bremen’s tactical adjustments might include a more robust midfield presence to shield a weakened backline, with players like Senne Lynen and Jens Stage pivotal in controlling the tempo and providing defensive cover. The betting markets may view these absences as tilting the odds in Leverkusen’s favour, given Bremen’s depleted squad and the tactical reshuffling required to compensate for missing regulars.

Werder Bremen Key Players

Werder Bremen’s attack is spearheaded by Jens Stage, the team’s top scorer with six goals this season. Stage’s ability to find the back of the net from midfield positions makes him a critical asset. His knack for arriving late into the box and finishing clinically could be a decisive factor against Bayer Leverkusen.

In midfield, Romano Schmid and Marco Grüll play pivotal roles in orchestrating play. Schmid’s vision and Grüll’s energy are essential in maintaining possession and transitioning from defence to attack. Defensively, Marco Friedl leads the backline with his composure and leadership, crucial for organising the defence against Leverkusen’s potent forwards.

Expected lineup for Werder Bremen

• Goalkeeper: Mio Backhaus
• Defence: Marco Friedl, Amos Pieper, Karim Coulibaly
• Midfield: Yukinari Sugawara, Senne Lynen, Jens Stage, Isaac Schmidt, Marco Grüll, Romano Schmid
• Forward: Justin Njinmah

The tactical approach of Werder Bremen heavily relies on their key players’ strengths. Jens Stage’s goal-scoring prowess, combined with the midfield dynamism of Schmid and Grüll, provides a balanced attacking threat. Meanwhile, Friedl’s defensive solidity will be critical in countering Leverkusen’s offensive strategies. These players’ performances could be pivotal in determining the outcome of the match.

Werder Bremen Tactics and Formation

Werder Bremen Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 3-4-2-1
• Key Forward: Justin Njinmah
• Midfield Engine: Senne Lynen and Jens Stage
• Defensive Solidity: Struggled with clean sheets, conceding 13 goals in the last five games.
• Notable Strategy: Emphasises wing play and overlapping runs.

Werder Bremen’s 3-4-2-1 formation is structured to provide width and flexibility in attack, with Justin Njinmah spearheading the forward line. The formation allows for dynamic wing play through Yukinari Sugawara and Isaac Schmidt, who are pivotal in creating chances from wide areas.

In midfield, Senne Lynen and Jens Stage form a crucial partnership. Stage, as the top scorer, plays a dual role in breaking up play and supporting attacks, while Lynen is tasked with maintaining possession and distributing the ball effectively.

Defensively, the back three of Marco Friedl, Amos Pieper, and Karim Coulibaly are tasked with maintaining a solid line, but recent performances highlight vulnerabilities, as evidenced by their 2.60 goals conceded per match on average. Adjustments in positioning and communication will be key to improving their defensive record.

Bayer Leverkusen vs Werder Bremen H2H Record

In their head-to-head record, Werder Bremen slightly edge Bayer Leverkusen with 17 wins to Leverkusen’s 16, alongside 18 draws. Their last encounter was a thrilling 3-3 draw at Bremen, showcasing the competitive nature of their Bundesliga clashes.

The last time Bayer Leverkusen hosted Werder Bremen at the BayArena, Bremen came away with a 2-0 victory in March 2025. However, Leverkusen had previously dominated at home with a 5-0 win in April 2024, indicating their potential to bounce back strongly.

Home Team	Away Team	Score	Competition	Date
Werder Bremen	Bayer Leverkusen	3 – 3	Bundesliga	30 August 2025
Bayer Leverkusen	Werder Bremen	0 – 2	Bundesliga	8 March 2025
Werder Bremen	Bayer Leverkusen	2 – 2	Bundesliga	26 October 2024
Bayer Leverkusen	Werder Bremen	5 – 0	Bundesliga	14 April 2024
Werder Bremen	Bayer Leverkusen	0 – 3	Bundesliga	25 November 2023