The UEFA Europa League quarter-final between Bayer Leverkusen and West Ham United is shaping up to be a highly anticipated match, especially given Leverkusen’s 2-0 win in the first leg. David Moyes’ team needs a strong comeback to overcome this deficit, while Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen will aim to maintain their remarkable unbeaten run this season. Below is an analysis of both teams’ potential lineups, key player absences, and the overall match dynamics.
Bayer Leverkusen Lineup and Key Players
Expected Formation: 3-4-1-2
Leverkusen has had an exceptional season, recently winning the Bundesliga title after a 5-0 victory against Werder Bremen. Head coach Xabi Alonso is expected to field a strong lineup to continue their winning momentum, with key players like Florian Wirtz and Victor Boniface leading the attack.
Predicted Starting XI:
Goalkeeper: Lukáš Hrádecký
Defenders: Odilon Kossounou, Jonathan Tah, Josip Stanišić
Jeremie Frimpong, Granit Xhaka, Exequiel Palacios, and Alejandro Grimaldo are midfielders.
Forward Line: Amine Adli, Florian Wirtz (attacking midfielder), Victor Boniface
Florian Wirtz: The 20-year-old playmaker is one of Leverkusen’s standout performers, scoring crucial goals in the Bundesliga and Europa League. He is a continual threat because of his inventiveness and vision.
Victor Boniface: The Nigerian striker has been prolific in front of goal, contributing significantly to Leverkusen’s attack, including scoring in the first-leg match.
Injury Report: Leverkusen has been fortunate on the injury front, with Adam Hložek as their only absentee. This stability gives Alonso a range of strong options in both defence and attack.
West Ham United Lineup and Key Players
Expected Formation: 4-3-3
West Ham enters this match facing challenges, including injuries and suspensions, making their comeback ambitions more challenging. Moyes is likely to use a 4-3-3 formation to maximize their attacking options while maintaining defensive solidity.
Predicted Starting XI:
Goalkeeper: Łukasz Fabiański
Defenders: Vladimír Coufal, Kurt Zouma, Angelo Ogbonna, Aaron Cresswell
Midfielders: Edson Álvarez, Tomáš Souček, James Ward-Prowse
Forward Line: Michael Antonio, Mohammed Kudus, and Jarrod Bowen (if appropriate)
Key Players:
Mohammed Kudus: With Lucas Paquetá suspended, Kudus will take on a more central role in West Ham’s offensive strategy. Known for his pace and dribbling, he could be West Ham’s most effective player in breaking down Leverkusen’s defence.
Jarrod Bowen: West Ham has hope when Bowen resumes training. His goal-scoring ability and work rate could provide a much-needed boost if he’s fit to play.
Injury and Suspension Report: West Ham faces several critical absences. Lucas Paquetá and Emerson are both suspended, while Alphonse Areola and Kalvin Phillips remain doubtful. Bowen and Konstantinos Mavropanos’ fitness will be evaluated before the match.
Key Players Performances
Several key players stood out in this high-stakes encounter:
Bayer Leverkusen:
Jonas Hofmann: The German winger was in fine form, scoring a crucial goal in the first leg. His pace, dribbling, and crossing ability posed a constant threat to the West Ham defence.
Victor Boniface: The Nigerian striker made a significant impact, scoring a well-taken goal in the first leg. His physicality and clinical finishing proved to be a handful for the West Ham defenders.
Jeremie Frimpong: The young full-back showcased his attacking prowess, scoring a late equalizer in the second leg. His speed and crossing ability made him a valuable asset for Leverkusen.
West Ham United:
Michail Antonio: The English striker scored a crucial goal in the second leg, giving West Ham hope of a comeback. His aerial ability and hold-up play were vital for the Hammers’ attacking threat.
Declan Rice: The English midfielder was a dominant force in midfield, winning tackles, intercepting passes, and distributing the ball effectively. His leadership and defensive qualities were crucial for West Ham’s hopes of progressing to the next round.
Tactical Analysis and Key Matchups
Leverkusen’s Pressing Game: Xabi Alonso’s team has demonstrated efficient pressing and quick transitions, making it challenging for opponents to build up from the back. West Ham’s defence will need to handle the combined pace of Adli, Wirtz, and Boniface.
West Ham’s Set-Piece Threat: Despite missing Paquetá, West Ham can still rely on Ward-Prowse’s set-piece expertise. Set-pieces could be an avenue to exploit against a Leverkusen team that might be less physically dominant in aerial duels.
Midfield Battle: The midfield clash between Xhaka-Palacios and West Ham’s Álvarez-Souček will be crucial. Both sides rely on physical, combative midfielders, which could influence possession control and transitions.
FAQs
Who won the first leg between West Ham and Bayer Leverkusen?
Leverkusen won the first leg 2-0, with goals from Jonas Hofmann and Victor Boniface. West Ham faces a two-goal deficit heading into this decisive match.
What time does the match start, and where can fans watch it?
The game is set to kick off at 20:00 BST (3:00 PM ET) at the London Stadium. Fans in the UK can tune in via TNT Sports 2 or Discovery+, while the U.S. audience can watch on Paramount+.
What are the injury updates for both teams?
For Leverkusen, only Adam Hložek is out. West Ham has several absences, including Areola, Paquetá, Emerson, and possibly Bowen.
Will Jarrod Bowen play for West Ham?
Bowen returned to training, but it’s uncertain if he’ll start or come off the bench.
Can West Ham overturn Leverkusen’s two-goal lead?
While challenging, it’s possible if West Ham can capitalize on set pieces, stay solid defensively, and create effective chances through Bowen and Kudus.
In Summary
The second-leg clash between Bayer Leverkusen and West Ham promises intensity and high stakes. With Leverkusen aiming to extend their unbeaten season and West Ham striving for a historic comeback, fans can expect a thrilling encounter. Leverkusen’s strength in attack and West Ham’s set-piece opportunities will be focal points, and both teams’ lineup decisions will heavily influence the game’s outcome.
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