As Bayer Leverkusen, the newly crowned German champions, prepare to face West Ham United in the second leg of the Europa League quarter-finals, all eyes are on Victor Boniface.
The Nigerian striker’s recent return to form could be the key factor when the teams clash in London this Thursday. Leverkusen holds a 2-0 lead from the first leg, with Boniface proving instrumental.
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Despite their faltering domestic performance, West Ham had sailed through the earlier rounds of the Europa League, showcasing solid football by knocking out Freiburg with a total score of 5-1 across two legs. Their recent slip in the Premier League, culminating in a loss to Fulham, casts a shadow over their current readiness.
Conversely, Leverkusen, under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, is riding a wave of high spirits. They topped their group in the Europa League and edged past Qarabag in a closely contested Round of 16. Their morale was further boosted by a dominant 5-0 victory over SV Werder Bremen, sealing their first Bundesliga title.
Head-to-Head Record
West Ham: 0 Wins
Leverkusen: 2 Wins
Draws: 0
Player to Watch: Victor Boniface
Victor Boniface, back in action after recovering from a groin injury sustained in January, has quickly regained his scoring touch. With goals in the Bundesliga and in Leverkusen’s recent European encounters, Boniface has accumulated five goals and one assist in six Europa League appearances this season. His dynamic presence on the field adds a crucial edge to Leverkusen’s attack.
Betting Odds
The odds, including those from 1xbet, rate Boniface’s chances of scoring against West Ham at 2.5. His ongoing form suggests that he could once again play a pivotal role in deciding the fate of this quarter-final matchup.
Leverkusen enters the match as the favorites, supported by their excellent form and historical advantage over West Ham. However, with West Ham eager to overturn their deficit in front of a home crowd, the stage is set for an enthralling battle for a place in the semi-finals.
