Stade Brestois' sensational journey to the Champions League group stage began with a series of two victories for the French side. In the third round, they face their first serious challenge in Bayer Leverkusen, who need to secure points against underdogs before facing top-tier competitors.
In the current campaign, Stade Brestois have only managed to secure victories in five of their 11 matches. Their struggles against teams with a high pressing line are concerning, having conceded 13 goals to Olympique de Marseille (1:5), Lens (0:2), Paris Saint-Germain (1:3), and Auxerre (0:3). Although their Champions League start was dazzling with two wins, even in their visit to Red Bull Salzburg (4:0), the Austrians were merely unlucky with their finishing (1.51 vs 1.00 xG and 14-15 in shots).
Conversely, Bayer Leverkusen have enjoyed impressive triumphs in the Champions League against notable opponents. It's noteworthy that against Feyenoord (4:0) and AC Milan (1:0), the reigning Bundesliga champions kept clean sheets, amassing an xG of 4.90 over 180 minutes in Europe. However, their main forward Victor Boniface is expected to miss the French trip due to injury but Martin Terrier or Patrik Schick—this summer's signing from Rennes, who provided an assist last Saturday against Eintracht Frankfurt (2:1)—will likely replace him in the starting lineup.
Stade Brestois' European fairy tale is set to end with their first encounter against a major club. Bayer Leverkusen will overcome the less skilled opposition, though it's advisable not to bet on a large margin.
