Bayern Munich vs. Bayer Leverkusen preview: Team news and predicted lineups | OneFootball

In a Champions League last-16 clash between two teams from the same country, German record champions Bayern Munich take on defending Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday.

It's just over two weeks since the two sides last met at the BayArena. On that occasion, Bayer Leverkusen had the upper hand, but Xabi Alonso's side couldn't find the back of the net and had to settle for a 0-0 draw.

A share of the spoils was all Bayern needed to maintain their eight-point lead over Leverkusen and stay on track for the Bundesliga title.

However, Bayer 04 can take heart from the fact that they've now gone six games without defeat against the Bavarians since September 2022.

After Bayern played an uncharacteristically defensive game away at the BayArena in February, Vincent Kompany will likely want to see his side push forward more and try to dominate the game on Wednesday.

The Belgian coach will be hoping that Joshua Kimmich returns from a minor injury to pull the strings in central midfield. In addition to the Germany captain, Aleksandar Pavlovic and Sacha Boey are both doubtful after missing Friday's 3-1 win over VfB Stuttgart through illness.

Long-term absentees Jeanuel Belocian and Martin Terrier are out for Die Werkself, who hope to welcome back Edmond Tapsoba from a minor injury. If he's unable to play, Mario Hermoso will likely start in his place at the back.

Xabi Alonso could line up without a natural striker and rely on the likes of Nathan Tella and Jeremie Frimpong to threaten with their pace, as was the case in the last two games against Bayern.

Click here to see our predicted Bayern Munich vs. Bayer Leverkusen lineups.