Brest have been of the biggest surprises of the Champions League this season, securing back-to-back victories despite their struggles in Ligue 1. The Pirates have shifted their focus towards the top-tier European competition, where they’ve shown their ability to rise to the occasion.
Perhaps one of Brest’s main advantages is their prowess in aerial duels. Eric Roy’s squad boasts several tall, athletic players. Given that the Pirates like to play long overhead passes, this could be the key to penetrating the opposition’s defense, especially when targeting Leverkusen’s penalty area.
However, Brest will have to play without Abdallah Sima, who is sidelined with an injury. The winger scored three goals against Sturm and Salzburg, and his contributions will be sorely missed. We will probably see Romain del Castillo instead in the starting lineup, who has yet to open his tally in the Champions League.
Leverkusen are currently enjoying a seven-match unbeaten streak and sit fourth in the Bundesliga. However, they allow too many mistakes in defence, as they have already conceded 13 goals in their domestic league.
Despite these defensive lapses in the Bundesliga, Alonso’s men have not conceded a single goal in the Champions League. Leverkusen secured a commanding 4-0 win against Feyenoord and followed that up with a narrow 1-0 victory over AC Milan.
One of Bayer Leverkusen’s clear advantages over Brest is the gulf in individual talent. Leverkusen have plenty of players whose individual skills are superior to their opponents. In addition, the visitors are superior to the Brest in creating dangerous opportunities.
For this clash, Leverkusen are expected to maintain a similar lineup to their previous encounter against Milan. With all key players available and in form, the team is well-equipped to deliver another high-level performance.
Bet hereAt the beginning of the season, Brest’s defence struggled. They conceded nine goals in the four opening rounds of Ligue 1 and the first game of the Champions League.
However, Brest started performing much better in late September and October, with Eric Roy’s men allowing only four goals in their last five matches, averaging less than one goal conceded per game.
In the previous Champions League outing, Brest managed to secure a clean sheet in an impressive 4-0 victory away against Salzburg. If we take all of the French club’s home games into account, they have a low expected goals against (xGA) of 1.36.
On the other hand, Bayer Leverkusen has a strong attacking record, boasting an away expected goals (xG) of 1.82, which indicates their ability to create dangerous scoring opportunities.
Given these factors, a reasonable betting pick for this match would be for Leverkusen to score under 2.5 goals.
We think Levekusen are the favourites in this match. The Black and Reds are experienced in European competitions, having reached the Europa League final last season, and will have an edge over Brest.
Leverkusen have already won two matches and will aim to extend their record. There are no significant injuries, and Xabi Alonso’s team will likely take the initiative from the first minutes of the game.
Brest will likely play from the defence and build their gameplay on counterattacks. This will be an ideal scenario for the guests, who will be able to create and convert dangerous chances. Our other pick for this matchup would be Leverkusen to win with a handicap (-1.5).
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