Olympiacos vs Bayer Leverkusen Preview: Predictions, Team News, and Lineups

The matchup between Olympiacos and Bayer Leverkusen at the Karaiskakis Stadium is highly anticipated. This confrontation marks the first leg of their Champions League knockout playoff tie. The teams previously met on matchday seven of the League Phase, where Olympiacos secured a 2-0 victory on home soil. The Greek side is eager to replicate that success as they aim for early control in the tie.

Match Preview

Olympiacos finished the League Phase strongly, experiencing a resurgence after a rocky start, not winning their first five matches (D2, L3). They concluded the phase with three consecutive victories, including a crucial 2-1 win over Ajax. This strong finish propelled them to 18th place in a competitive 36-team table, ensuring their passage to the Champions League knockout rounds for the first time since the 2013-14 season.

Historically, Olympiacos has fared well against Leverkusen, winning two of their last three encounters in Piraeus. They recorded an emphatic 6-2 victory in 2002, adding confidence as they prepare for this crucial match. However, recent form is concerning, as Olympiacos has only secured one win in their last four fixtures (D2, L1). Their latest match ended in a goalless stalemate against Levadiakos, with the team now finding themselves second in the Super League, two points behind AEK Athens.

Leverkusen’s Recent Form

Bayer Leverkusen arrives with positive momentum, following a dominant 4-0 victory against St Pauli. This win lifted them to sixth place in the Bundesliga, just three points away from the top four with a game in hand. Their unbeaten streak has now reached six matches in all competitions (W5, D1), reversing a poor start to the year.

In the League Phase, Leverkusen finished in 16th place, securing 12 points from three wins, three draws, and two losses. Despite often struggling in the knockout phases—losing 10 of their last 12 matches—this season they did manage victories against Manchester City and Benfica away from home.

Team News

For Olympiacos, midfielder Theofanis Bakoulas is still sidelined due to a knee injury. Additionally, doubts linger over defender Francisco Ortega and striker Mehdi Taremi, who both missed the recent match. Panagiotis Retsos, a former Leverkusen player, will likely be motivated to perform against his old team.

Leverkusen also has key injuries, with forward Eliesse Ben Seghir and goalkeeper Mark Flekken ruled out. Janis Blaswich will continue in goal. Striker Christian Kofane faces disciplinary issues, being one caution away from suspension, while Patrik Schick is expected to lead the attack once again.

Possible Lineups

Prediction

While Olympiacos may be facing a dip in form, the home advantage could see them elevate their performance. Leverkusen’s recent resilience is notable, but their away struggles could play a factor. Experts predict a narrow victory for Olympiacos, suggesting a 2-1 scoreline.