Borussia Dortmund – Bayer Leverkusen

Borussia Dortmund head into the clash as clear favourites, sitting second in the table with nine points from three straight wins and a dominant 8‑2 goal difference. Bayer Leverkusen, meanwhile, occupy eighth place, having collected four points after a win, a draw and a loss, but they boast an equally impressive eight goals scored, albeit conceding five. The hosts will be eager to maintain their unbeaten run and stretch the gap to the leaders, while the visitors will look to close the six‑point deficit to the top half and prove their attacking edge. Historically the two sides have produced tight encounters, and the contrast between Dortmund’s flawless record and Leverkusen’s mixed form adds an extra layer of intrigue to what promises to be a pivotal fixture.