Leverkusen Looking to Bounce Back at Hoffenheim After Unbeaten Streak Ends

Leverkusen's Unbeaten Streak Snapped

Bayer Leverkusen's impressive unbeaten streak in the Bundesliga came to an end on Saturday as they suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat at home to Union Berlin. The setback means that Leverkusen have now failed to win in their last three league matches, following a 1-0 loss to Bayern Munich and a 2-2 draw with Werder Bremen.

The defeat leaves Leverkusen in eighth place in the Bundesliga table, eight points behind leaders Bayern Munich. With just six games remaining in the season, Leverkusen's hopes of securing a top-four finish are fading fast.

Hoffenheim on the Rise

Hoffenheim, meanwhile, are in good form and will be confident of causing Leverkusen further problems on Saturday. Hoffenheim have won their last three league matches, including an impressive 4-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund.

The victory moved Hoffenheim up to fifth place in the Bundesliga table, just one point behind fourth-placed RB Leipzig. Hoffenheim are now in a strong position to secure a Europa League place for next season.

Key Battleground

The match between Leverkusen and Hoffenheim is likely to be decided in midfield. Leverkusen will be without the suspended Kerem Demirbay, so Julian Baumgartlinger and Exequiel Palacios will need to be at their best.

Hoffenheim, meanwhile, will be looking to Florian Grillitsch and Dennis Geiger to control the tempo of the game. Grillitsch has been in excellent form this season, and he will be a key player for Hoffenheim on Saturday.

Prediction

This is a tough match to call, but Hoffenheim are in better form than Leverkusen at the moment. The home advantage could be crucial, but Hoffenheim have shown that they can win on the road this season.

I predict that Hoffenheim will win 2-1.