Bayer Leverkusen will look to keep their Bundesliga title hopes alive when they host Hoffenheim at the BayArena on Sunday. Leverkusen sit six points behind Bayern Munich in second place, while Hoffenheim are hovering just above the relegation zone in 15th.
The match also presents an intriguing Nigerian subplot, with Victor Boniface, Nathan Tella, and Kevin Akpoguma set to feature. Boniface, who recently saw a proposed move to Al Nassr collapse, will be eager to get back to his best form, while Tella continues to grow in stature under Xabi Alonso.
Meanwhile, new Hoffenheim signing Gift Orban could play a key role up front.
Correct score prediction: Leverkusen vs Hoffenheim
Given Leverkusen’s imperious home form, winning 7 of their 10 matches at the BayArena this season and Hoffenheim’s defensive vulnerabilities, Alonso’s men should have too much firepower for their visitors.
Hoffenheim have been porous at the back, conceding 37 goals in 19 league games, and will struggle to cope with Leverkusen’s attacking threats. Expect a comfortable win for the hosts, with the Nigerian trio of Boniface, Tella, and Orban all having a chance to make their mark.
Prediction: Leverkusen 3-1 Hoffenheim
Victor Bonifac looking to reignite his season
The 24-year-old’s return is a timely boost for Leverkusen. He had been close to joining Al Nassr before the deal fell through, and Alonso has since reaffirmed his importance to the squad.
Boniface has been plagued by injuries this season, missing 12 games due to a thigh problem, but when fit, he has been effective, scoring eight goals in 15 appearances across all competitions.
The Super Eagles forward’s presence in attack will be crucial as Leverkusen attempt to chase down Bayern at the top of the table.
Tella’s growing influence under Alonso
The former Arsenal man continues to impress in his second season with Die Werkself. The former Southampton winger was on the scoresheet in Leverkusen’s 2-0 UEFA Champions League victory over Sparta Prague, marking his first goal in the competition.
In 2025, he has scored twice in seven games, and overall, he has provided three goals and three assists in 25 appearances this season.
With his ability to stretch defenses, Tella will be key to unlocking Hoffenheim’s backline.
Akpoguma to face test against Bundesliga’s best
The 28-year-old Super Eagles defender has been a consistent presence in Hoffenheim’s struggling defense, starting 14 of their 19 Bundesliga matches this season.
Akpoguma is expected to line up alongside Arthur Chaves, Robin Hranac, and David Jurasek in a back four that will attempt to contain Leverkusen’s dynamic frontline.
Hoffenheim have conceded at least two goals in six of their last eight games, a worrying statistic ahead of their trip to the BayArena.
A fresh start for Orban in Germany
Hoffenheim bolstered their attack in the January transfer window by signing Gift Orban from Lyon, and the 22-year-old forward is gradually settling into life in the Bundesliga.
Orban has scored one goal in three league matches for his new club and could lead the line in the absence of Andrej Kramaric and Haris Tabakovic.
Given Leverkusen’s attacking dominance, Hoffenheim will need Orban to be clinical with any opportunities that come his way.
