The reinvigorated attack of Bayer Leverkusen seemingly hasn't missed a beat despite the absence of Victor Boniface and Patrik Schick, leaving Xabier Alonso without any traditional strikers. In these circumstances, Leverkusen have re-entered the title race, and their game against Freiburg could bring them even closer to Bayern Munich.
Since the November international break, Bayer Leverkusen have been in extraordinary form, securing seven consecutive victories, and scoring two or more goals in all but two of those games. Against FC Augsburg (2:0), the team comfortably pulled ahead with 1.02 xG. Notably, the reigning German champions sit fourth in the league for expected goals, showcasing one of the most effective finishing rates (28.72 xG and 32 goals).
During the same period, SC Freiburg have delivered a few inconsistent performances. Their heavy defeat in Dortmund (0:4) and elimination from the DFB-Pokal by Arminia Bielefeld (1:3) from the 2. Bundesliga highlight their ongoing adjustment after parting ways with Christian Streich. Against VfL Wolfsburg (3:2), Freiburg fortuitously scored twice from free kicks and corners, though their opponents nearly snatched a draw in the dying moments.
In their last five away matches, SC Freiburg have failed to secure a win, suffering three defeats with an aggregate score of 2:10. Bayer Leverkusen are expected to score at least two goals against this inconsistent mid-table side as they continue their chase for Bayern Munich.
