After 18 rounds of the 2025/26 Bundesliga, Bayern Munich sit on 41 points, three ahead of Dortmund, while RB Leipzig hold fourth with 35. The relegation zone features Heidenheim (17 points), Hamburger SV (14) and Augsburg (9). With goal difference now favoring Dortmund, the title race and survival fight are tighter than any point in the first half.
Title Duel Heats Up
Bayern’s Lead Shrinks
Bayern remain on top but their advantage has dwindled to three points. Defensive lapses have seen them concede twelve goals in the last five games, dropping their expected‑goals average to 1.8 per match. New signing Victor Boniface has yet to find form, scoring only once in three appearances.
Dortmund’s Momentum
Dortmund’s 3‑2 win gave them a superior goal difference (+15 vs. Bayern’s +13) and a surge in confidence. Midfield dynamo Jude Bellingham has contributed six goals and four assists, boosting Dortmund’s attacking output to an xG of 2.2 per game.
Leipzig’s Surge to European Spot
RB Leipzig sit fourth with 35 points, propelled by a high‑pressing system that has produced twelve clean sheets – the most in the league. A 4‑1 demolition of Mainz highlighted the impact of youngster Noah Kluge, who added a brace and an assist, pushing Leipzig’s goal tally to 38.
Relegation Battle Intensifies
Heidenheim’s Tactical Shift
Coach Frank Schmidt’s move to a 3‑4‑3 formation has steadied Heidenheim’s back line, earning a point in a 1‑1 draw with Stuttgart. The change suggests a possible turning point for a side that entered the top flight aiming to survive.
Hamburger SV Struggles
Hamburger SV remain entrenched in the bottom three, averaging just 0.9 goals per game – the lowest among the relegation candidates. Their inability to convert chances continues to jeopardize any climb out of the danger zone.
Augsburg’s Defensive Woes
Augsburg sit on nine points and have conceded 29 goals, the highest total in the league. Without a rapid defensive overhaul, their chances of escaping the drop are slim.
Key Statistics
- Points distribution: Top three clubs hold 114 of the 306 points awarded (37.3%).
- Goal differential: Dortmund leads with +15, Bayern +13, Leipzig +10.
- Fantasy impact: Bellingham, Leipzig’s Dani Olmo and Schalke’s rising star Luis Santos each average over 7.5 fantasy points per match.
Implications for the Rest of the Season
Bayern must tighten their defense and reignite Boniface’s scoring to maintain their lead. Dortmund’s current form positions them as genuine challengers, while Leipzig’s consistency could secure a coveted Europa League berth. Mid‑table clubs will need to capitalize on any slip‑ups from the leaders to push for European spots.
Looking Ahead to Matchday 19
Upcoming fixtures are decisive: Bayern travel to Borussia Mönchengladbach, and Dortmund host Bayer Leverkusen. In the relegation fight, Heidenheim face VfL Bochum, a clash that could provide crucial points to stave off the drop. The next weeks promise intensified battles at both ends of the table.
