On Sunday, 17 January 2026 at 21:30 CET, Rheinstadion hosts the 18th Bundesliga round where Hoffenheim meets Bayer Leverkusen. The home side fights to stay out of the relegation zone, while Leverkusen aims to tighten its grip on the title chase. Both clubs need three points to advance their season objectives.
Match Details
The fixture will be broadcast live on beIN SPORTS 4, allowing fans worldwide to watch the decisive encounter in real time.
Team Formations and Key Players
Hoffenheim is expected to line up in a 4‑2‑3‑1, with Folc leading the attack. Leverkusen will likely use a 4‑3‑3, featuring Murakami orchestrating the midfield and Kana stretching the flanks.
Current League Situation
Hoffenheim sits with 22 points after 17 games, battling to avoid the drop. Their recent 2‑2 draw against Bayern Munich highlighted defensive frailties. Scoring contributions from Folc and Camelin remain vital.
Leverkusen occupies second place with 58 points, riding a three‑match winning streak and averaging four goals per game. Consistency in attack and a solid backline anchored by Galter and Marcelin are crucial for maintaining pressure on the leaders.
Head‑to‑Head Statistics
In the last ten meetings, Hoffenheim has won 2, drawn 2, and lost 6. Leverkusen claims victory in 60 % of those clashes, underscoring their historical edge.
Key Factors Influencing the Result
- Folc’s attacking threat – Continuous goal‑scoring from Folc could level the playing field.
- Leverkusen’s defensive organization – Managing the runs of Camelin and Gilbert will test their backline.
- Weather and pitch conditions – January chill may slow ball speed, influencing tactical adjustments.
- Substitutes usage – Effective rotation by Hoffenheim’s coach could preserve energy, while Leverkusen may rotate to mitigate fatigue.
Impact on League Table
A Leverkusen win lifts them to 61 points, narrowing the gap to Bayern Munich (65 points) and solidifying second place. A Hoffenheim victory would raise their total to 25‑26 points, shrinking the safety margin to just 4‑5 points above the relegation zone.
Fan Expectations
Hoffenheim supporters anticipate a raucous atmosphere that could inspire a crucial point haul, whereas Leverkusen fans look for sustained confidence and a statement win to cement their title ambitions.
Final Takeaway
The 17 January showdown pits a survival‑focused Hoffenheim against a title‑chasing Leverkusen. Strategic decisions, player form, and environmental factors will likely determine which side extracts the three points, making this match a pivotal moment in the 2025/26 Bundesliga season.
