Professionals, 26. April 2024
Record against Leverkusen
Overall: 89 games. 23 wins, 22 draws, 44 defeats. 111:159 goal difference.
In the Bundesliga: 85 games. 23 wins, 22 draws, 40 defeats. 108:150 goal difference.
Home vs. away record
Bayer: 15 games. 13 wins, 2 draws. 43:8 goal difference, 41 points. 1st in home table.
VfB: 15 games. 9 wins, 6 defeats. 25:22 goal difference, 27 points. 4th in away table.
Looking back
The last two meetings in the Bundesliga have ended 1-1, most recently in December, when Chris Führich crowned a strong first-half performance by VfB with the opening goal. The two teams actually last faced off in the DFB Cup quarter-finals in early February. Waldemar Anton and Führich twice put Stuttgart in front, but Leverkusen triumphed 3-2 in the end thanks to a last-minute goal.
What the coaches say
Ahead of the meeting with the new German champions, Sebastian Hoeneß said: “We were in the game until the very end in both our meetings and want to steer the game in the right direction on this occasion. To do that, we need to show the same levels of courage and be ready to give our all in pursuit of our big goal.”
“It’s going to be an intense game,” said Bayer 04 boss Xabi Alonso. “Stuttgart play attractive football with a clear idea. They’ve been one of the best teams in Europe this season. They’re always brave and flexible in their performance. They’ve earned the right to be in Europe next season.”
Injuries and suspensions
Long-term absentees Dan-Axel Zagadou, Niko Nartey, Josha Vagnoman, Li Egloff (all injured) remain sidelined, while Roberto Massimo has been unable to train with his team-mates this week due to a muscle issue.
For the hosts, Granit Xhaka is suspended after collecting five yellow cards, while forwards Adam Hlozek and Borja Iglesias are out injured.
Spectators
At least 2,900 fans will accompany the team to Leverkusen, with the away allocation sold out.