Reigning Danish champions FC Copenhagen return to the Champions League group stage riding an impressive run of form. Heading into their domestic clash with Bröndby, they were unbeaten in seven matches, consolidating their status as league leaders. Their European qualifying journey showcased both resilience and consistency: a 3-0 aggregate win over Drita, a dominant 5-0 victory against Malmö, and a hard-fought triumph over FC Basel with a 1-1 draw away and 2-0 win at home.
Continental football is no stranger to the club. Copenhagen reached the Round of 16 in last season’s Conference League, proving they can compete on the European stage. Now, their focus is on translating domestic dominance into meaningful progress in the Champions League.
In terms of personnel, manager Jacob Neestrup faces challenges. Orri Óskarsson Mattsson, one of their early-season stars with five goals in 11 games, is sidelined through injury. Youngsters Højer and Moalem are also unavailable, while forward Onugkha was left out of the European squad. Still, attackers like Mohamed Elyounoussi, who has already been involved in nine goals this season, and supporting forwards Achouri, Moukoko, and Larsson (three goals each) provide a strong offensive threat. Veteran midfielder Thomas Delaney also adds valuable experience, though he has yet to fully reclaim a starting role.
Leverkusen’s Unsettled Start
For Bayer Leverkusen, the new campaign has been turbulent. After winning the Bundesliga last season, expectations were high, but results have been mixed. Defeats to Hoffenheim (1-2) and a draw with Werder Bremen (3-3) left the club winless in its opening fixtures. That stuttering start prompted a managerial change, with Erik ten Hag dismissed and Kasper Hjulmand—the former Denmark national coach—taking charge. His debut on the Leverkusen bench came in Friday’s clash against Eintracht Frankfurt.
Despite early instability, Bayer’s squad remains stacked with quality. The summer brought key reinforcements: defenders Loïc Badé and Jarell Quansah, versatile full-back Lucas Vázquez from Real Madrid, creative midfielder Malik Tillman (already on the Bundesliga scoresheet), and winger Ben Seghir from Monaco. However, the squad will miss injured players like Terrier and Belocian, as well as midfielder Jonas Hofmann and striker Sarco, who were not registered for the competition.
Even with summer departures of Florian Wirtz and Victor Boniface, Leverkusen retained striker Patrik Schick, who has already netted three goals across all competitions. His experience and finishing ability will be crucial as the team looks to re-establish momentum under new management.
Prediction and Outlook
This match sets up as a fascinating clash between a Copenhagen side brimming with confidence and a Leverkusen team undergoing transition. Copenhagen’s home form and attacking balance give them a fighting chance, but their lack of depth compared to elite European sides remains a concern.
Leverkusen, by contrast, boast a proven Champions League pedigree, with 13 wins in their last 18 matches at this level, including five straight victories. That track record makes them strong favorites, though Copenhagen will aim to make home advantage count.
Expect a competitive contest, but Leverkusen’s superior depth and firepower should see them edge past a determined Copenhagen side.
Prediction: FC Copenhagen 1 – 2 Bayer Leverkusen
