On Wednesday evening, Bayer Leverkusen will be hosting Newcastle United at the BayArena for their sixth group-stage match in the Champions League. Both clubs know a win could meaningfully improve their chances of qualifying for the knockout phase.
Leverkusen are arriving in mixed form. They’ve recently beaten a European heavyweight but are also suffering a domestic defeat. While Newcastle are travelling with decent momentum after a few good results across competitions.
HOWAY THE LADS ✊ pic.twitter.com/Fy9iJpuUCi
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) December 10, 2025
Leverkusen are likely to field a back three featuring summer signing Jarell Quansah alongside Loic Bade and Jeanuel Belocian. Midfielder Exequiel Palacios remains sidelined with a groin problem. Instead, Aleix Garcia and Ibrahim Maza are chances to start. Upfront, striker Patrik Schick may lead a forward line alongside Christian Kofane and Malik Tillman. Leverkusen’s hopes will be pinned on his recent resurgence.
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At the back, goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale is expected to start behind centre-backs Fabian Schar and Malick Thiaw. First-choice Nick Pope remains injured. The midfield likely features Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton, providing stability and defensive cover. Up front, new signing Nick Woltemade should lead the attack. Anthony Gordon and Anthony Elanga should offer pace and width. Meanwhile, Yoane Wissa could feature as a substitute.
Both sides carry attacking threats. Even so, the defensive solidity and recent match rhythm suggest a cautious affair. Leverkusen, after a strong win versus a top club, followed up with a 2-0 domestic defeat which highlighted occasional defensive fragility.
Newcastle have shown flashes of offensive potential. But they remain unpredictable on their matches on the road. Historically, their European away matches often end in low-scoring outcomes. So it’s plausible the match stays under 3.5 goals with a tight 2-1 result.
Patrik Schick has regained confidence in Europe. He scored headers in back-to-back Champions League games, including decisive goals against Benfica and Manchester City. Given Newcastle’s vulnerability when under pressure and the fact that Leverkusen will push to capitalize at home, Schick looks a good candidate to find the back of the net again. Thus, making him a value pick at +175.
Nick Woltemade enters the match with growing momentum. His improved physicality, directness, and temperament suggest that he’s capable of impacting on any given night. Newcastle will likely rely on quick transitions and aerial or physical presence to challenge Leverkusen’s defense. Hence, Woltemade’s chance to either score or assist seems reasonable at +105.
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Leverkusen’s home advantage, combined with their recent European form and Schick’s red-hot streak, gives them a slight edge. Newcastle will likely fight hard. Woltemade’s physical presence and clever link play from midfield could see them pull one back.
Given Leverkusen’s attacking flair and hunger for points, a 2-1 home win feels like the most likely outcome. The match should remain tight yet competitive, with Leverkusen just about edging it.
soccer Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.
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