The Round of 16 in the German Cup delivers a blockbuster matchup on December 2, 2025, as Borussia Dortmund host Bayer Leverkusen in what is undoubtedly the standout clash of the round. With both teams in strong form and carrying big ambitions, this encounter promises high intensity and plenty of drama.
Intro to the Match
Borussia Dortmund managed to secure fourth place last season only after replacing the struggling Nuri Sahin at the right moment. Now, under improved leadership, the team is performing at a respectable level—though still falling short against the true giants like Bayern in the Bundesliga and Manchester City in the Champions League. A week ago, they blasted Villarreal 4-0, and after a chaotic 3-3 draw with Stuttgart, they impressively defeated Bayer away in the league.
Bayer’s Current Situation
Leverkusen completed a historic “golden double” in 2024, but the following season brought turbulence. They slipped to second place, Xabi Alonso left, and key players departed. Ten Hag failed to stabilize the squad and was dismissed quickly. Since Julmand’s arrival, however, the team has found its footing again. After the break, they defeated both Wolfsburg and Manchester City, though they later fell to the same Manchester City in the Bundesliga.
Road to the Round of 16
Dortmund began their cup journey by beating Rot-Weiss Essen in the summer. A 1-1 draw in Frankfurt forced penalties in which Kobel emerged as the hero. Bayer started by crushing Sonnenhof Grossaspach 4-0 and later beat Paderborn away, scoring another four goals but conceding twice.
Key Statistics and Trends
Borussia Dortmund have won their last 2 matches
Dortmund average 1.75 goals scored and 0.92 conceded per match
50% of Dortmund’s matches end with both teams scoring
Average total goals in Dortmund games: 2.67
Bayer have won 6 of their last 8 matches
Bayer average 2.33 goals scored and 1.42 conceded per match
67% of Bayer’s matches see goals from both teams
Average total goals in Bayer games: 3.75
Probable Lineups
Borussia Dortmund:
Kobel – N. Schlotterbeck, Anton, Anselmino – Svensson, Brandt, Adeyemi, Bellingham, Sabitzer, Ryerson – Bayer
Bayer Leverkusen:
Flekken – Belocian, Bade, Tapsoba – Grimaldo, Ben-Segir, Hofmann, Andrich, Aleix Garcia, Arthur – Schick
Previous Meetings
Prior to their league battle earlier this season, Dortmund and Bayer had already met twice, exchanging spectacular away victories that showcased the attacking firepower on both sides.
Free Prediction
This match carries every sign of being just as thrilling as their previous encounters. With both teams pushing forward aggressively and displaying high scoring tendencies, we expect another open and entertaining showdown.
A strong betting angle is:
Total Goals Over 2.5 (Odds: 1.6)
