Bayer Leverkusen Hosts SV Elversberg in DFB-Pokal Second Round: Preview and Predictions

Bayer 04 Leverkusen is set to face SV 07 Elversberg in the second round of the DFB-Pokal on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at the BayArena in Leverkusen, Germany. Leverkusen, the reigning DFB-Pokal champions, will look to assert their dominance at home against the 2. Bundesliga side Elversberg.

Leverkusen enters the match as heavy favorites, given their superior squad depth and home advantage. They have had a decent start to their DFB-Pokal defense, having narrowly beaten Carl Zeiss Jena 1-0 in the previous round with a goal from Jonas Hofmann. However, their recent Bundesliga form has shown some defensive vulnerabilities, including a 2-2 draw against Werder Bremen where they conceded a last-minute equalizer.

Elversberg, currently seventh in the 2. Bundesliga, is in high spirits following a 4-2 comeback victory over Hamburger SV. Despite their impressive league form, Elversberg faces significant challenges due to several injury concerns. Key players such as Frederik Jakel, Florian Le Joncour, Patryk Dragon, Semih Sahin, and Fisnik Asllani are expected to be unavailable, which will test their defensive and midfield depth.

The match is anticipated to be competitive, with Leverkusen’s attacking prowess likely to prevail. Leverkusen has a strong attack, averaging 2.37 goals per game, although their defense has struggled, conceding 15 goals in eight league matches. Elversberg, despite being from the second division, has a solid attack and defense, averaging 1.9 goals scored and 1.2 goals conceded per game. However, overcoming Leverkusen’s firepower and experience will be a daunting task for the visitors.

Predictions suggest that Bayer Leverkusen will secure a solid victory, with possible scores ranging from 3-1 to 5-1 in favor of the home team. The match promises to be exciting, with Leverkusen expected to dominate and create numerous scoring opportunities).