Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen are set to lock horns in a mouth-watering UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first-leg clash at the Allianz Arena tonight. The Bavarian giants, eager to reclaim European glory, welcome the reigning Bundesliga champions in what promises to be a high-octane encounter.
Vincent Kompany’s Bayern have recovered well after a shaky start to the season and currently lead the Bundesliga by eight points, capitalizing on Leverkusen’s recent slip-ups. The hosts come into this tie brimming with confidence after back-to-back convincing league victories, while Leverkusen have lost just once in 2025.
Xabi Alonso’s side, however, have had Bayern’s number in recent meetings. The Spaniard remains unbeaten against the Rekordmeister since taking charge, and his team secured a memorable win at the Allianz Arena in the DFB-Pokal last December. Leverkusen, who qualified for the knockouts automatically after finishing in the top eight of the league phase, will fancy their chances of continuing their impressive run.
However, history and pedigree favor Bayern, who edged past Celtic in the play-offs to reach this stage. While they have looked vulnerable at times, their European experience could prove decisive on home turf.
Score Prediction: Bayern Munich 2-1 Bayer Leverkusen
Expect a tight battle, but Bayern’s Champions League heritage and home advantage should give them the edge in the first leg.
