Gaziantep FK
Göztepe
Boluspor
Ümraniyespor
Luton Town
West Bromwich
B. Leverkusen
Stuttgart
Alaves
Mallorca
Monaco
Angers
Lille
Lyon
VfB visit Leverkusen for the fourth time in this calendar year. Despite strong performances, the three previous trips yielded just one draw. “Friday evening, under the lights: we’re certainly in for a heated and emotional game, but a very nice one,” said head coach Sebastian Hoeneß in Thursday’s press conference.
“It’s the kind of match that represents exactly what football is about and why so many people watch it. We’ve already had some good, fiery matches against Leverkusen this year. But it’s not about playing beautiful football, it’s about getting something from these games. That’s what we’ll try to do.”
No changes to injury situation – starts for Chase, Rouault and El Bilal
On the personnel front, there’s no change since the DFB Cup clash against 1. FC Kaiserslautern on Tuesday. Yannik Keitel (adductor) and Jeff Chabot (suspension) will miss out again, while Hoeneß also gave a first glimpse into the starting XI: “Anthony Rouault and Anrie Chase will play. El Bilal will also start. He’s earned it – he’s fresh and rested, agile, dynamic and good on the ball. They’re all qualities that will be needed on Friday evening.”
Heading to Leverkusen in positive frame of mind
Despite the short turnaround, the team are already in good shape for the upcoming match. Momentum and freshness are two key points that the VfB boss mentioned. “Winning three games in one week gives us a certain sense of ease and positive mood to travel to Leverkusen with confidence,” said Hoeneß. “Leverkusen are an absolutely top team who have only lost one of their last 42 matches in all competitions. We’re looking forward to it and are capable of performing with great willingness.”
