The Daily Star Ireland
Bayer Leverkusen have been at the center of German football headlines in recent months, with a turbulent managerial shake-up dominating the narrative. Xabi Alonso departed for Real Madrid, paving the way for Erik ten Hag, whose reign was short-lived after only three official matches.
A shocking 5-1 preseason defeat to Flamengo’s U19 side and poor tactical cohesion led to immediate unrest in the dressing room, and the club’s leaders acted quickly. Ten Hag, frustrated by the decision, described his dismissal as “incomprehensible.”
Since then, Kasper Hjulmand, the former Danish international, has steadied the ship. Under his leadership, Leverkusen remain unbeaten, defeating Eintracht Frankfurt 3-1, drawing 2-2 in Copenhagen during their Champions League opener, and sharing points again in a 1-1 tie with Borussia Mönchengladbach. They now turn their attention to a tough European test against PSV Eindhoven.
PSV’s Mixed Start in Europe
PSV Eindhoven also entered the group stage with high expectations but endured a difficult opening match against Union Saint-Gilloise, the reigning Belgian champions. Despite dominating possession with 63%, Ivan Perišić’s PSV side struggled to break down their well-organized opponents. USG punished PSV’s defensive frailties on the counter, registering 18 shots and racing into a 3-0 lead before Van Bommel grabbed a late consolation goal.
Domestically, PSV remain strong contenders, currently sitting second in the Eredivisie with 13 points. Their next league match is away to Excelsior, but the Champions League clash with Leverkusen will be seen as a true test of their resilience after that disappointing European opener.
Team News: Key Absences for Both Sides
Leverkusen are missing several important names. Young forward Sarco and former Rennes attacker Martin Terrier remain sidelined, while Argentine midfielder Exequiel Palacios is out long term with a serious injury. The club chose not to register him for the group stage. Jonas Hofmann has also been left off the European squad list.
Adding to the challenges are the departures of Florian Wirtz (to Liverpool), Piero Hincapié (to Arsenal), and Victor Boniface (loaned to Werder Bremen). Despite these losses, Bayer still boast quality through Patrick Schick, who has scored three league goals, and Alejandro Grimaldo, who has already netted twice this season.
PSV also face injury concerns. Mauro Junior and French striker Alassane Pléa are unavailable, with Pléa’s long-term absence ruling him out of the Champions League squad. Right-back Jordan Siltillia, a French youth international, and the prolific striker Myron Boadu are also sidelined. However, new recruits such as goalkeeper Matěj Kovář, signed from Leverkusen, and winger Ruben van Bommel — who already has three league goals and one in Europe — are expected to feature. Ivan Perišić has been a bright spot, providing five assists in the Eredivisie and bringing invaluable experience from his years at the top level.
Match Outlook
Leverkusen’s home form in Europe is formidable. They have won 18 of their last 21 Champions League matches at the BayArena, making them one of the most consistent sides on their own turf. PSV, by contrast, have struggled on the road, losing six of their last eight away fixtures in the competition.
With Leverkusen’s momentum under Hjulmand and PSV’s vulnerability in European away games, the balance looks tilted in favor of the German side.
Prediction
Bayer Leverkusen’s strength at home, coupled with PSV’s poor recent travel record, suggests the hosts will continue their unbeaten run in Europe.
Predicted Score: Bayer Leverkusen 3 – 1 PSV
