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Bayer Leverkusen host Arsenal in a decisive round of 16 first leg in the Champions League knockout stage in Leverkusen on Wednesday (March 11).

This match marks a massive test for both clubs. Arsenal progressed directly to the round of 16 after an absolutely flawless league phase campaign, finishing top of the 36-team table with eight straight wins under Mikel Arteta.
However, they face a German side capable of causing major upsets.

Bayer Leverkusen, now managed by Kasper Hjulmand, reached this stage by eliminating Greek champions Olympiacos in the playoffs. With the BayArena always providing a hostile environment, Die Werkself are looking to build on their impressive European form, which notably includes a stunning 2-0 victory over Manchester City earlier this season.

Bayer Leverkusen vs Arsenal Team News and Injury Updates

Bayer Leverkusen’s Kasper Hjulmand faces several injury headaches heading into this crucial home fixture. Key players like Patrik Schick (muscle) and Mark Flekken (knee) are doubtful or sidelined. The German club is also without Loic Bade, Lucas Vázquez, Arthur, and Eliesse Ben Seghir due to various injury setbacks. However, Janis Blaswich is expected to start in goal, with Alejandro Grimaldo and Robert Andrich anchoring the side.

Unlike their opponents, Arsenal boast a strong squad but are not without absences. Head coach Mikel Arteta will likely be missing captain Martin Odegaard, Ben White, and Mikel Merino. Leandro Trossard and Riccardo Calafiori are also listed as doubtful. Star striker Viktor Gyokeres, who has seamlessly fit into the Gunners’ attack, will lead the line alongside Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.

Bayer Leverkusen vs Arsenal Predicted Lineups

Bayer Leverkusen: Blaswich; Quansah, Andrich, Tapsoba; Kofane, Palacios, Garcia, Grimaldo; Maza, Terrier; Culbreath.

Arsenal: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Eze, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli.

Bayer Leverkusen vs Arsenal Head-to-Head and Recent Form

Bayer Leverkusen and Arsenal have crossed paths before, but competitive meetings have been rare. In their historical 2001/02 Champions League encounters, Arsenal won 4-1 at Highbury after a draw in Germany. They also met in a 2024 club friendly, which Arsenal comfortably won 4-1.

Bayer Leverkusen’s domestic form has been somewhat inconsistent as they sit sixth in the Bundesliga. Arsenal, however, arrive in excellent form, sitting seven points clear at the top of the Premier League and chasing a historic quadruple.

Bayer Leverkusen vs Arsenal Prediction

Arsenal’s dominant structure under Mikel Arteta gives them a clear edge in quality, but dismissing Bayer Leverkusen in Germany is always a mistake. The German side has proven they can beat the best, as seen against Manchester City. However, Arsenal’s flawless European record this season and defensive solidity should see them through. Expect a highly tactical match where the Gunners eventually break down the hosts.

Final Score Prediction: Bayer Leverkusen 0 – 2 Arsenal.

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