In the current season, Borussia Dortmund have once again not posed a significant challenge to their rivals for the championship title. Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen have capitalised on Bayern Munich's losses and secured a position in the top two. Both teams ended 2024 on a high note and are poised for an open game in their first encounter of January.
Borussia Dortmund's victory over a formidable Wolfsburg side (3:1) put an end to a run of four matches without a win. The team scored three times by the 30th minute, generating 2.65 xG by the final whistle. Borussia Dortmund boast the Bundesliga's best home record, with 20 points and 20 goals in eight matches. However, they will face defensive challenges with Pascal Groß suspended and Niklas Süle injured.
Since the international break in November, Bayer Leverkusen have achieved eight consecutive wins across all competitions. In Leverkusen, against Freiburg (5:1), the players enjoyed a sensational performance. Patrik Schick scored four goals in the first half hour and the team generated 2.91 xG with 12 shots on target. The reigning champions currently rank third in the Bundesliga in expected goals (31.98) and have scored five more than expected (37).
Despite being the nominal favourites, Bayer Leverkusen have not defeated Borussia Dortmund since February 2022, with Borussia remaining unbeaten in their last four meetings. Playing at home, Dortmund will resist their strong opponents, and the likelihood of numerous chances points to the success of a total over 2.5 prediction.
