Leverkusen are expected to line up in a 3-4-2-1 under Carles Martínez. That shape gives them three centre-backs, wing-backs pushed high, and two attacking midfielders floating behind a lone striker. It is a system designed to dominate the half-spaces and overload the flanks. With Nathan Tella recovering from a back injury and Kennet Eichhorn still unavailable, Martínez will likely lean on the width provided by his wing-backs to stretch Leipzig's back line. The key will be how quickly Leverkusen can turn possession into chances — Schick through the middle, the two tens drifting into pockets, and the wing-backs bombing on. If they get the tempo right, Leipzig could be pinned back for long spells.

Leipzig are predicted to set up in a 4-2-2-2 — a narrow, aggressive shape that relies on quick transitions and the front two pressing in tandem. Without Baumgartner and Reitz, the double pivot lacks its usual bite. That means the away side may struggle to control the midfield dogfight, especially if Leverkusen's wing-backs push high and force Leipzig's full-backs into defensive positions. The 4-2-2-2 can be devastating on the counter, but it requires the front two to hold the ball up and the midfield to win second balls. Against a Leverkusen side that will press aggressively at home, Leipzig could find themselves chasing shadows. Set-pieces could be a factor too — Leverkusen have the height and delivery to cause problems, while Leipzig's defensive record from dead balls has been patchy.