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Leverkusen vs Newcastle: Group Stage Showdown

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, December 10th 2025 at 4:52 GMT by Sporting News

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Bayer Leverkusen vs Newcastle United – Champions League Group Stage Preview

The 2024‑25 UEFA Champions League group stages are heating up, and the clash between Bayer Leverkusen and Newcastle United on 7 March is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing fixtures of the opening round. In this preview we’ll walk through the form, tactical battles, key personnel, predicted line‑ups and the betting markets that bookmakers are already building around the match.

1. The Context

1.1 Leverkusen – The German Powerhouse

Leverkusen are riding a wave of confidence after a remarkable 12‑match unbeaten run that includes a 2‑0 triumph over AC Milan in the Champions League. Their Bundesliga campaign is comfortably in the top‑four, with an attacking style that sees them average 2.4 goals per game. Their defensive solidity, built on the disciplined work of midfielder Leon Goretzka and centre‑back Antonio Rüdiger, keeps them tight at the back. Leverkusen’s recent matches have seen them score 17 goals and concede only five, a ratio that keeps them among the best defensive units in Europe.

1.2 Newcastle – The English Red Devils

Newcastle United, under the guidance of new manager Eddie Howe, have experienced a mixed start to the Premier League. While they have struggled against the top‑flight teams, their recent form has improved: a 3‑1 win over Southampton and a 2‑0 victory against Brighton have given them a boost. In the Champions League, however, they have not yet tasted victory, losing their first two matches 0‑1 to Atlético Madrid and 1‑2 to Real Madrid. The Magpies are looking for a breakthrough, and the fixture against Leverkusen will be seen as an opportunity to turn the tide.

1.3 Group A – The Stakes

The match is the last of the first leg of Group A, and the results will shape the group’s complexion. A win for Leverkusen will virtually lock them into the top‑two spot, while a defeat could open the door for Barcelona or PSG to overtake them in the standings. For Newcastle, a victory would provide a crucial 3‑point cushion and a morale boost heading into the second leg.

2. Tactical Analysis

2.1 Leverkusen’s Playstyle

Leverkusen’s system is built around a high‑pressing 4‑2‑3‑1 formation. Their two holding midfielders (usually Goretzka and Florian Wirtz) serve as a shield for the defence while allowing the attacking midfielders (Matteo Politano, Florian Müller, and the newly signed Alexander Isak) to roam freely. The German side relies heavily on quick transitions and counter‑attacks, with their full‑backs (Joris Delle and Marius Bär) overlapping to provide width.

Their key threat comes from the forward line. The partnership of Isak and a potential loan signing (the article speculates about a return of a former top scorer, yet the link to the club’s transfer page confirms that a striker from the Swiss Super League is on the brink of joining) could pose a problem for Newcastle’s backline.

2.2 Newcastle’s Approach

Newcastle, still experimenting under Eddie Howe, prefers a 4‑4‑2 with a focus on possession and set‑pieces. Their midfield is a blend of experience and youth, with the likes of Joe Gibbins and Miguel Almazán. The full‑backs (Jack Colback and Michael Lumb) are expected to provide width, and the centre‑backs (James Garner and Ben Gibson) aim to hold a firm defence.

However, the team’s vulnerability lies in its defensive solidity. The article points out that Newcastle’s defense has conceded 1.8 goals per game this season, a statistic that places them below the league average. The coaching staff is hoping to counter Leverkusen’s counter‑attack with a disciplined press in the final third.

3. Predicted Line‑ups

The preview offers a detailed prediction of the starting XI for both sides:

Bayer Leverkusen (4‑2‑3‑1)
- Goalkeeper: Kevin Trapp
- Right‑back: Joris Delle
- Centre‑backs: Antonio Rüdiger & Robin Knoche
- Left‑back: Marius Bär
- Defensive midfielders: Leon Goretzka & Florian Wirtz
- Attacking midfielders: Matteo Politano, Florian Müller & Alexander Isak
- Forward: Raffaele Bianchi

Newcastle United (4‑4‑2)
- Goalkeeper: Alex Meret
- Right‑back: Jack Colback
- Centre‑backs: James Garner & Ben Gibson
- Left‑back: Michael Lumb
- Midfielders: Joe Gibbins, Miguel Almazán, Ryan Gravenberch & Callum Wilson (deep‑lying)
- Forwards: Adam Johnson & Alexander Kane

The article notes that if the injury to Newcastle’s winger Sam Allardyce resolves, he could be pushed forward into the starting XI, potentially turning the match into a high‑scoring affair.

4. Betting Markets & Odds

The betting section breaks down the main markets:

The odds suggest that Leverkusen are the favorites, especially in the 1X2 market, but bookmakers also note that Newcastle have a 45% chance of scoring in their last four fixtures, making the “Both Teams to Score” market attractive. The article also highlights the upcoming bet‑builder tool on the Sporting News site, which allows users to combine multiple markets into a single stake (e.g., Home win + Correct Score 2‑1 + Over 2.5 Goals).

5. Key Players to Watch

5.1 Leverkusen

• Alexander Isak – The forward’s pace and goal‑scoring instinct could exploit Newcastle’s backline.
• Florian Müller – Known for his long-range shots, Müller could add a surprise dimension to the attack.

5.2 Newcastle

• Alex Meret – The goalkeeper’s recent performances have been solid, but a single mistake could cost the Magpies.
• Michael Lumb – As a defender, his tackling has been effective; his ability to win aerial duels is critical against Isak.

6. Additional Resources

The article includes several links for readers who wish to dig deeper:

• A link to Leverkusen’s match‑by‑match statistics on the club’s official website, showing goal distribution per minute.
• A link to Newcastle’s injury report, which details the status of several squad members, including the potential return of Sam Allardyce.
• A link to the UEFA Champions League group table, giving the current points, goal difference, and upcoming fixtures for each team.
• A link to the betting section on Sporting News, providing live odds and the bet‑builder feature for users to construct custom bets.

These resources help contextualise the match further, allowing readers to make well‑informed predictions and to explore betting options.

7. Final Thoughts

Bayer Leverkusen versus Newcastle United is a fascinating encounter that pits a team in a form groove against a side that is still finding its footing. Leverkusen’s high‑pressing, counter‑attack style will test Newcastle’s defensive resilience, while Newcastle’s possession‑based approach will look for moments to break the German rhythm.

The predicted line‑ups and betting odds show a clear edge for Leverkusen, but the ever‑present unpredictability of football – and the fact that the match will be played at Newcastle’s St. James’ Park – means anything can happen. For fans and punters alike, this fixture offers a compelling mix of tactical intrigue, emerging talent, and the classic under‑dog storyline that makes the Champions League a truly global spectacle.