Although they’re at the 14th place in the tables, there is a lot of optimism in the Bochum’s squad. The performances they’ve shown lately give them full right to be confident before the upcoming matches. In the last 4 matches, they haven’t suffered a defeat, managing to record two away wins. The team is playing better and better and according to everything, they won’t have major problems to avoid relegation. Coach Herrlich is very pleased with his team’s form and says he is hoping the good trend will continue in the future as well. He respects the league leaders, but says he doesn’t see his team as outsiders in that clash. Their health situation is very good and only ill Klimowitz won’t play. The following lineup can be expected: Heerwagen - Concha, Maltritz, Mavraj, Fuchs - Prokoph, Dabrowski, Maric, Holtby - Epallé, Sestak.
Impressive
How important is a coach for one squad is best seen at the “Pharmaceuticals” example. With the arrival of experienced Heynckes full of authority, Leverkusen has raised their level to an entire new level. From the team that played beautiful and often “died in that beauty” and remained without points, this season they become a team that exclusively plays to win points. They’re much tougher in defense, and that’s proven by the fact they haven’t been defeated in the league so far. Aggressive play in the offense still functions no matter they’ve played the most of the season without their main player Helmes. This all says that this team has fully matured and it’s not a surprise they represent the main title candidate together with Bayern. They are entering the clash against Bochum as great favorites, but Heynckes is calling for caution as Bochum is playing much better than their position in the standings indicates. Bayer’s coach says he won’t be changing his tactics too much, as he believes his guys have got more quality than their opposition. If they play at the top level, Heynckes expects new 3 points. The following squad has been announced: Adler - Schwaab, M. Friedrich, Hyypiä, Kadlec - Vidal, Reinartz - Barnetta, Kroos - Kießling, Derdiyok.
Visitors are better after all
This will be an interesting clash between two very in-form sides. However, Bochum is the weaker rival who is playing poor at home lately. In the 7 consecutive home games, they stayed winless and it’s hard to believe they can change that against outstanding Bayer. This will be just another casual match for the visitors, who are on the mission to win the title. Heynckes won’t be gambling and will certainly motivate his guys well. I think that will be enough for them to take all 3 points.
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Prediction:
Tip: 2
Odd: 1.70
Bookie: Bwin
Stake: 7 /10
Tipster: Kather
