Bayer Leverkusen, Bundesliga champions, set their sights on Bochum this Sunday, a venue marking their last league defeats in May 2023, at the culmination of the previous season. Under Xabi Alonso's guidance, Leverkusen's journey from the brink of relegation in October 2022 to the precipice of a remarkable treble illustrates a season of unprecedented success, with Europa League and German Cup finals within reach.
Bochum, despite their struggles, pose a formidable challenge, especially at home, evident in their February victory over Bayern Munich, contributing to Thomas Tuchel's departure. In their pivotal encounter last May, Leverkusen's aspirations for European qualification clashed with Bochum's desperate fight for survival, resulting in a stunning 4-3 victory for the latter, securing their top-flight status.
As Leverkusen aims to maintain their unbeaten Bundesliga streak, Bochum seeks to replicate their triumph from last season, knowing that a win guarantees their place in the Bundesliga next season. Meanwhile, the relegation battle intensifies elsewhere, with Union Berlin's fate hanging in the balance as they face Cologne, while Mainz confront Dortmund in their quest to avoid the playoff spot.
In the midst of Bundesliga's gripping narratives, Stuttgart's Jamie Leweling emerges as a standout performer, having played a pivotal role in both Union Berlin's surprising Champions League campaign and Stuttgart's current success. With seven assists and four goals this season, Leweling's influence underscores the transformative impact of coach Sebastian Hoeness, fueling optimism for Stuttgart's future endeavors in the Champions League.
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