Prediction: Borussia Mönchengladbach vs Bayer Leverkusen

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 11/4

Bookmaker: bet365

Following a successful first weekend back, the Bundesliga is starting to get back into the flow of regular fixtures on a week to week basis – what a novelty. We’re in for another set of intriguing fixtures over the course of the next few days from derby clashes to relegation six-pointers, but today, we’re going to be taking a look at the tussle between two of Germany’s most famous clubs as Borussia Monchengladbach prepare to lock horns with Bayer Leverkusen.

Borussia Monchengladbach

The worry was that Gladbach would be static in their Bundesliga return last weekend, but in fact, it was quite the opposite. They came out all guns blazing and already seemed to have the points wrapped up before they’d even hit the 15 minute mark. It was the kind of statement-making performance that left many wondering whether or not they could go after the title, and while that may sound overly optimistic, the rule book has been well and truly thrown out for this season.

Team News

Zakaria is still out of action following his recent knee surgery whereas Johnson’s muscle injury will ensure his absence from the game. Bennetts could feature after making his own recovery from a muscle problem, with Bensebaini and Jantschke also being available for selection.

Bayer Leverkusen

Leverkusen wanted to put any lingering doubt regarding their ability to keep up with the big boys to rest against Werder Bremen – and they did so emphatically. They stuck four past the relegation strugglers on Monday night, and now, they’ll be more confident than ever heading into the Gladbach game. With the lack of fans in attendance, they’ll also be pretty happy knowing that they don’t have to face any kind of intimidating atmosphere.

Team News

Volland’s ankle injury means he’ll probably miss the remainder of the season in a huge blow for Leverkusen. Bender is out through a foot problem, but thankfully for Peter Bosz, a wealth of players are still competing for a place in the starting XI – especially in the middle of the park.

Factors to Consider

• In their last meeting back in November, Monchengladbach beat Leverkusen 2-1.
• Monchengladbach have won four, drawn one and lost one of their last six games.
• Leverkusen have won five and drawn one of their last six games.
• Monchengladbach have scored 14 goals and conceded eight in their last six games.
• Leverkusen have scored 18 goals and conceded five in their last six games.

Conclusion

Both teams have the potential to push Bayern Munich all the way this season, and they’re going to prove why in this game. We’re expecting a back and forth clash with both clubs allowing their star players to shine, but funnily enough, we aren’t expecting all too many goals. We think they’ll cancel each other out, and while it may not look like a great game if it ends up finishing 1-1, it’ll have the kind of pace to it that we rarely see these days.

Prediction: Draw

Best Odds: 11/4

Bookmaker: bet365