Bayer Leverkusen closed the gap to Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich to six points with a dramatic 4-3 victory at Stuttgart, securing yet another late winner in second-half injury time. The win ended a streak of three consecutive defeats in all competitions, equaling their total competitive losses for the entire season before that slump.
History, however, is not on Leverkusen’s side. Since the introduction of three points for a win, only Stuttgart in the 2006/07 season has managed to overturn a seven-point deficit at this stage of the Bundesliga campaign. That said, a home clash with Bochum presents a golden opportunity to apply pressure on Bayern, as Leverkusen has dominated this fixture, winning the last four meetings at home.
Bochum’s Battle for Survival
Sitting in the relegation play-off place, Bochum fell 3-1 at home against Frankfurt before the international break. However, recent form (W2, D2, L2) suggests they are showing signs of life, especially after a stunning 3-2 away victory at Bayern Munich.
Despite their struggles, Bochum has remained unbeaten in their last three away fixtures (W1, D2), averaging two goals per game in that span. However, their historical struggles at Leverkusen’s home ground—where they’ve failed to score in their last three visits—make this a daunting challenge. Adding to their woes, Bochum’s away record against top-11 Bundesliga sides this season is poor (W1, D1, L8).
Players to Watch
Patrik Schick (Leverkusen): The Czech forward scored in the reverse fixture and has five career goals against Bochum—only Freiburg and Hoffenheim have suffered more at his hands. Matúš Bero (Bochum): Scored the famous winner against Bayern and has only lost one of his five scoring appearances for Bochum (W3, D1).
Leverkusen has struggled in Friday night Bundesliga home fixtures, losing four of their last eight such games (W2, D2). With Leverkusen chasing Bayern and Bochum fighting for survival, this match carries massive stakes for both teams.
