As the Bundesliga countdown reaches its climax, Bayer Leverkusen finds itself in a crucial position, clinging to a coveted top-four finish ahead of an intense clash against VfB Stuttgart on Saturday. Coach Kasper Hjulmand is urging his squad to reset their mentality as they prepare for the high-stakes encounter at MHPArena.
Currently sitting fourth in the league with only two matches left to play, Leverkusen’s fate hangs in the balance following a series of strong performances that have seen them win four out of their last five matches. However, the team faces stiff competition from Stuttgart and Hoffenheim, who trail closely behind on points but differ in goal difference. Recent European results confirmed that Germany will not secure an extra Champions League qualification place next season, with Bayern Munich’s defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-finals sealing the fate.
“We’ve had a very good week with a lot of anticipation for this next assignment,” Hjulmand stated during Friday’s press conference. “Obviously the mood is positive and the confidence is there. We want to take the push from the last game to Stuttgart. But it starts from zero again on Saturday.”
Despite their current form, Hjulmand emphasized the importance of focus, stating they must capitalize on their position. He acknowledged Stuttgart’s strengths, as they have performed admirably this season and are set to compete in the cup final. “We need to play with concentration and mental strength,” Hjulmand added. “They’re pressing heavily man-to-man, and we know that. We’re ready for the challenge.”
Stuttgart’s head coach, Sebastian Hoeness, echoed the significance of this matchup, particularly in light of their last week’s thrilling 3-3 draw against Hoffenheim, another contender for a European spot. “It’s a home game where there’s a huge amount at stake,” said Hoeness. “The players had a good week in training and showed plenty of energy. I’m confident that, with the support of our fans, we’ll get off to a really good start in the game.”
Hoeness recognizes the need for his team to push to their limits, stating, “Leverkusen are a team that want to play football and they’ve got superb individual players in their ranks.”
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Stuttgart – Chris Fuhrich
Fuhrich is enjoying a productive stint, netting three goals in his last four Bundesliga outings, matching his tally from the previous 20 matches. With seven goals this season, he is just shy of his career-high of eight from 2023-24.
Bayer Leverkusen – Patrik Schick
Schick has been in sensational form recently, scoring nine goals over his last six Bundesliga matches, eclipsing his total of seven from the initial 20 appearances of the season. He is now one of the league’s top scorers, trailing only Harry Kane and Deniz Undav.
MATCH PREDICTION – STUTTGART WIN
Historically, Stuttgart has struggled against Leverkusen, winning just one of their last 16 matches across all competitions, though they did claim a 4-1 victory in their latest encounter. At home, Stuttgart remains winless in their last 13 league meetings with Leverkusen, a run that has not only been frustrating but unprecedented.
While Leverkusen boasts the joint-best form in the league, Stuttgart has had mixed results lately, with only one victory in their last five Bundesliga fixtures.
However, Stuttgart’s home record this season has been strong, with 36 points earned at home, ranking third in the division. According to Opta’s predictive model, Stuttgart is the narrow favourite entering this pivotal clash.
— VfB Stuttgart 1893 (@VfB) May 7, 2026
OPTA WIN PROBABILITY
Stuttgart – 42.8%
Bayer Leverkusen – 33.4%
Draw – 23.8%
