Bayer Leverkusen vs. Qarabag preview: Team news and predicted lineups
Here is our preview of Thursday's Europa League round of 16 second leg clash between Bayer Leverkusen and Qarabag, including predicted lineups.
After fighting back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 in the first leg, Bayer Leverksuen will be aiming for a more consistent performance in the second leg at home on Thursday night.
"The first leg last week was very difficult for us. Qarabag will be fighting again and we will have to do the same until the end," said Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso, adding that Die Werkself need "the right balance between stability and tempo.
Leverkusen, who are yet to lose a game this season, also faced Qarabag twice in the group stage, winning both of those encounters. The home game in particular will be remembered fondly by Die Werkself, who won 5-1.
"We know what kind of game we played against Qarabag in the group stage. But the knockout phase is different," Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka told Kicker.
"We need to keep our cool, stay focused and get to the next round."
As in the previous Europa League game this season, Matej Kovar will be in goal in place of Lukas Hradecky. Leverkusen have no new injury concerns, with Arthur and Victor Boniface the only absentees.
Qarabag, fresh from a 3-1 win over Zira in the Azerbaijan Premier League, have a full-strength squad for the match.
Click here to see our predicted Bayer Leverkusen vs. Qarabag lineups.