The anticipation is building as Bayer Leverkusen prepares to host AC Milan at the iconic BayArena on Wednesday night. This Champions League clash promises to be an enthralling encounter, with both sides eager to assert their dominance early in the group stage.

Leverkusen vs Milan: Match Preview

Leverkusen’s impressive performance in their opening match against Feyenoord, where they secured a commanding 4-0 victory, has set high expectations for Xabi Alonso’s team. Meanwhile, Milan, despite a rocky start against Liverpool, have bounced back strongly in Serie A with recent wins. As the teams gear up for this pivotal fixture, fans can expect a captivating display of skill, strategy, and determination.

ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – SEPTEMBER 19: Jeremie Frimpong of Bayer 04 Leverkusen during the UEFA Champions League match between Feyenoord v Bayer Leverkusen at the Stadium Feijenoord on September 19, 2024 in Rotterdam Netherlands (Photo by Pim Waslander/Soccrates/Getty Images)

Bayer Leverkusen enters this match with significant momentum following their stellar 4-0 triumph over Feyenoord. This victory not only showcased their attacking prowess but also solidified their status as contenders in this year’s Champions League. The 2023-24 season was historic for Leverkusen, setting a high bar as they transition into the current campaign. Although their domestic start hasn’t been flawless, notable results, including a hard-fought draw against Bayern Munich, have instilled confidence within the squad.

One of the standout players for Leverkusen is Florian Wirtz. The young midfielder has been in sensational form, scoring a brace against Feyenoord and finding the net against Wolfsburg. His ability to influence matches has been crucial, with contributions in five of his last eight appearances for club and country. Additionally, Nigerian striker Victor Boniface is another key figure, boasting an impressive aerial presence and solid goal-scoring ability. With four goal contributions already this season, he poses a significant threat to Milan’s defense.

AC Milan’s journey in the Champions League began on a sour note with a 3-1 defeat to Liverpool. However, they have responded remarkably well, securing victories against Serie A rivals Inter and Lecce. This resurgence has positioned them favorably ahead of their trip to Leverkusen, where they aim to prove their resilience against a formidable opponent.

The Rossoneri will rely heavily on Theo Hernandez to bolster their defensive efforts. The French left-back has been pivotal for Milan, showcasing not only his defensive capabilities but also contributing to their attacking plays. Recently, Hernandez equaled the legendary Paolo Maldini’s record of 28 goals for the club, highlighting his dual impact on the game. His experience and skill will be critical in containing Leverkusen’s attacking threats.

Leverkusen’s defense will face a stern test against a Milan side known for their tactical discipline. Jonathan Tah, Leverkusen’s center-back, emphasized the need for patience when breaking down Italian defenses, which are typically organized and resilient. In the pre-match press conference, he acknowledged the challenges posed by Milan’s playing style and emphasized the importance of maintaining composure.

Xabi Alonso echoed this sentiment, noting that his team must be prepared for any scenario, whether Milan opts for a defensive stance or tries to dominate possession. This clash of styles promises to create a tactical battle that could define the outcome of the match.

Both teams have shown vulnerabilities in their defensive setups, with Leverkusen conceding eight goals in seven matches and Milan struggling with their own defensive consistency. This trend suggests that fans can expect an exciting encounter, where both teams are likely to find the back of the net. Given Milan’s recent 3-0 victory, they will aim to replicate that defensive strength, but Leverkusen’s attacking firepower will pose a significant challenge.

Leverkusen vs Milan: Head-to-head

The two teams have never faced each other in UEFA competitions.

Leverkusen vs Milan: Team News

Leverkusen

It is unlikely that there will be many changes to Leverkusen’s starting XI from Saturday, as Alonso currently enjoys the advantage of having a fully fit squad to choose from.

While there is intense competition for positions in the midfield pivot, Andrich is expected to keep his spot alongside Granit Xhaka. Aleix Garcia and Exequiel Palacios, who has recently recovered from knee surgery, will aim to make an impact if brought on from the bench.

Patrik Schick and Victor Boniface are in a close contest for the starting forward position, but there is no question about who is Alonso’s preferred choice at the moment.

Leverkusen: Predicted Lineup (3-4-2-1)

Goalkeeper – Hradecky
Defenders – Tapsoba, Tah, Hincapie
Midfielders – Frimpong, Andrich, Xhaka, Grimaldo
Forwards – Terrier, Wirtz, Boniface

Milan

Fonseca doesn’t share the same injury fortune as Alonso, though Ismael Bennacer remains the most significant player missing for Tuesday’s match.

The stylish midfielder could be sidelined until the year’s end due to an ankle injury. However, Milan is much better equipped to cope with his absence than in past seasons.

STADIO GIUSEPPE MEAZZA, MILANO, ITALY – 2024/09/22: Fikayo Tomori of Ac Milan celebrates at the end of the Serie A match beetween Fc Internazionale and Ac Milan. Ac Milan wins 2-1 over Fc Internazionale. (Photo by Marco Canoniero/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Additionally, backup goalkeeper Marco Sportiello and experienced full-back Alessandro Florenzi are long-term absentees, and captain Davide Calabria might also be unavailable due to a muscle injury.

Milan: Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper – Maignan
Defenders – Emerson, Tomori, Gabbia, Hernandez
Midfielders – Fofana, Reijnders, Loftus-Cheek
Forwards – Pulisic, Leao, Morata

Leverkusen vs Milan: Prediction

Things looked bleak for Fonseca following their Matchday 1 loss, but consecutive wins have given Milan some momentum heading into this clash. Their attack is starting to click, with Christian Pulisic in fine form, making him the player Leverkusen will need to contain on Tuesday.

Leverkusen’s ability to keep clean sheets seems to rely on a focused defensive effort, as Alonso shifted tactics over the weekend after his side’s previous defensive struggles.

The hosts are unlikely to adopt a mid-block and counterattack strategy against Milan, meaning the visitors should have their chances. However, Milan will face a tough challenge in stopping Florian Wirtz and the rest of Leverkusen’s attack from causing problems in this encounter.

Prediction: Bayer Leverkusen 3-1 Milan.

Where and Where to Watch the Match? Streaming Details and Live Broadcast

The UEFA Champions League 2024-25 match between Leverkusen and Milan will be broadcast live in India on Sony Sports Network. The match is scheduled to Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at 12:30 AM Indian Standard Time (IST).

Viewers in India can watch the match live from Bay Arena. Additionally, for those who prefer online streaming, the match will be available for live streaming on the SonyLIV App.