FC Copenhagen head into the Champions League buoyed by a strong run of form. The reigning Danish champions recently extended their unbeaten streak to seven matches, a sequence that has kept them at the top of the domestic league. Their path to the group stage was commanding: victories over Drita (3-0 aggregate), Malmö (5-0 aggregate), and a decisive play-off win against FC Basel (1-1, 2-0) ensured their place among Europe’s elite.
European competition is nothing new for Copenhagen. Last season, they reached the Conference League Round of 16, a campaign that underlined their growing consistency on the continental stage. Now, the Danes look to build on that experience with another deep run, though their opening task is a daunting one.
Team news brings challenges. Key forward Mattsson, who had already scored five times in 11 appearances this season, is sidelined through injury. Youngsters Højer and Moalem are also unavailable, while striker Onugkha has been left out of the Champions League squad. The creative spark will likely come from Mohamed Elyounoussi, already involved in nine goals across all competitions. Alongside him, Achouri, Larsson, and former Nice forward Moukoko—each with three goals this term—will shoulder the attacking burden. Veteran midfielder Thomas Delaney adds depth, though he is not expected to start.
Leverkusen’s New Era Under Hjulmand
Bayer Leverkusen enter this campaign after an unusually shaky start to their Bundesliga defense. Early-season setbacks, including a 1-2 defeat to Hoffenheim and a 3-3 draw with Werder Bremen, left them winless until their recent home fixture against Eintracht Frankfurt. These struggles cost Erik ten Hag his job, with Danish coach Kasper Hjulmand—fresh from leading Denmark at the Euros—appointed earlier this month. His debut on the sidelines came in the Frankfurt clash, as he seeks to steady the champions.
Squad availability is mostly positive, though notable absentees include Jonas Hofmann, young striker Sarco, and the injured pair Martin Terrier and Belocian. Even so, Leverkusen’s squad depth remains formidable. Recent recruits such as Loïc Badé, Jarell Quansah, and Lucas Vázquez add defensive steel, while summer arrivals Malik Tillman and Ben Seghir bolster attacking options.
The big loss of Florian Wirtz and Victor Boniface in the transfer window has left gaps in creativity and finishing, but Patrik Schick continues to lead the line effectively, with three goals already this season. His presence will be key as Leverkusen look to reassert themselves in Europe.
Tactical Outlook
Copenhagen will likely lean on their home support, pressing with energy while relying on Elyounoussi’s creativity and Larsson’s pace to unsettle Leverkusen’s defense. Without Mattsson, however, their cutting edge could be reduced.
Leverkusen, under Hjulmand, are expected to play a more structured game, blending defensive discipline with rapid transitions. Schick’s physicality and finishing will be crucial, while Tillman and Ben Seghir provide flair in wide and central areas. If they can settle quickly under new management, Leverkusen have the tools to dominate possession and dictate tempo.
Prediction
The momentum and pedigree lean heavily toward the German champions. Leverkusen have won 13 of their last 18 Champions League fixtures, including a current streak of five victories. By contrast, Copenhagen have endured seven defeats in their last nine matches in this competition, highlighting the gap in quality and consistency.
Prediction: FC Copenhagen 1 – 2 Bayer Leverkusen
The Danes may put up a spirited fight at home, but Leverkusen’s depth and European experience should ultimately prove decisive.
