Surprise package Brest continues their remarkable Champions League adventure as they face German champions Bayer Leverkusen at Stade du Roudourou on Wednesday.
Both teams have enjoyed strong starts to the competition, but the clash will be a significant test of Brest's progress on Europe's biggest stage.
Brest Recent Form
Brest's first Champions League campaign has been one to remember so far. After securing a historic third-place finish in Ligue 1 last season, Brest have thrived in Europe, winning both of their opening matches.
They stunned Sturm Graz with a 4-0 away win, thanks to a brace from Abdallah Sima and impressive saves from goalkeeper Marco Bizot. Domestically, however, Brest have struggled with consistency, drawing 1-1 against Rennes at the weekend, leaving them in the bottom half of the Ligue 1 table.
Bayer Leverkusen Recent Form
Leverkusen have carried their domestic dominance into the Champions League. Under Xabi Alonso, they have won their opening two group stage matches, defeating Feyenoord 4-0 and edging past AC Milan 1-0.
Domestically, Leverkusen are close to the Bundesliga summit, having beaten Eintracht Frankfurt 2-1 in their most recent league fixture. Leverkusen's formidable attack and midfield, led by Florian Wirtz and Granit Xhaka, have made them one of the competition's most feared sides.
Injury and Team News
Brest could be without key player Abdallah Sima, who missed their last Ligue 1 match due to a hamstring injury. Eric Roy will also have to make adjustments in defence as Julien Le Cardinal is a doubt after pulling out during the warm-up against Rennes.
However, midfielder Pierre Lees-Melou made his return from injury over the weekend, offering a boost for the Ligue 1 side.
For Leverkusen, Florian Wirtz could return to the starting lineup after recovering from an ankle injury. The German international made a cameo appearance at the weekend and may start in this crucial clash.
Striker Victor Boniface's involvement remains uncertain after he was taken to hospital following a car accident. Martin Terrier, formerly of Rennes, is another player to watch, especially given his excellent record against Brest.
Last Brest Lineup
Here is how Brest lined up in their 1-1 draw against Rennes:
Last Bayer Leverkusen Lineup
Here is how Bayer Leverkusen lined up in their 2-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt:
Brest Player To Watch
With Abdallah Sima potentially sidelined, the pressure falls on Ludovic Ajorque. The towering striker has been instrumental in Brest’s attack, providing assists and leadership up front. His link-up play with Del Castillo will be crucial if Brest are to breach Leverkusen’s defence.
Leverkusen Player To Watch
Florian Wirtz is the standout player for Leverkusen. Returning from injury, the young playmaker has the ability to unlock defences with his vision and dribbling. His partnership with Granit Xhaka in midfield is key to Leverkusen’s fast, attacking style.
Prediction
Despite Brest’s surprising start to the competition, Leverkusen's quality and experience at this level are likely to see them edge the contest. Brest have shown they can compete, but Leverkusen’s firepower and ability to control the game in midfield give them the upper hand.
Our Prediction: Brest 1-2 Bayer Leverkusen
Betting Tips
Tip 1: Both Teams to Score
Both teams have shown attacking prowess in the Champions League, and while Leverkusen are favourites, Brest’s counter-attacking threat makes it likely they will score.
Tip 2: Over 2.5 Goals
Leverkusen’s attacking intent combined with Brest’s recent goalscoring form suggests this game could see multiple goals.
Tip 3: Leverkusen to Win
With Leverkusen’s superior squad depth and recent form, they are strong favourites to secure the win.
