Bayer Leverkusen vs Hoffenheim: Bundesliga Prediction (23.08.2025)

On August 23, 2025, at 15:30 CEST, in the opening round of the German Bundesliga, Bayer Leverkusen will host Hoffenheim at home. Bookmakers consider the hosts clear favorites, offering odds around 1.50–1.55 for their win. However, opening rounds often bring surprises. Let’s review the current form of both teams and provide a prediction for this match.

Bayer Leverkusen

Last season, Leverkusen failed to defend their league title but still confidently finished second. The main intrigue now is how the team will perform after a coaching change—Xabi Alonso left for Real Madrid, and Erik ten Hag, whose reputation took a hit after being dismissed by Manchester United, took charge. The team’s preseason has also been quite inconsistent. In their first game, Bayer were thrashed by Flamengo’s youth squad (1–5), and against their only serious opponent, Chelsea, the “Pharmacists” lost 0–2.

In their debut match of the current season, Bayer played against Großaspach from the regional league. Despite a convincing 4–0 win, they only took control after their opponents received two red cards. It’s also worth noting that Bayer’s squad changed dramatically over the summer. Hrádecky, Xhaka, Wirtz, Kossounou, Frimpong, Tah, and Mukiele all departed. Ten Hag will essentially have to build a new team from scratch.

Hoffenheim

Last season was full of problems for the Villagers. The team barely survived, finishing just above the relegation zone with a three-point cushion. Away games were particularly troublesome: Hoffenheim lost 11 of 17 away matches, winning only 3 and drawing 3. They also crashed out of the Europa League, failing to reach the knockout stage.

However, the new season looks more stable for Hoffenheim. Most key players are fit, and coach Christian Ilzer—who took over midway through last season—remains in charge, now with a full preseason to prepare. The team took their friendlies seriously, winning all 8 matches, many by large margins. This included two victories against Werder Bremen (1–0 and 3–0) and a resounding 8–0 win over French side Metz.

Head-to-head statistics

The last five meetings between these sides all ended in victories for Bayer Leverkusen.

Prediction

For Bayer vs Hoffenheim, our prediction leans toward the underdog. The visitors are showing much more confident and stable form ahead of the season. Therefore, the suggested bet is on Hoffenheim to win with a +1.5 handicap at odds of 1.66.