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Olympiacos F.C.
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Bayer 04 Leverkusen
Prediction published on Jan 19, 2026 12:02 AM by Dario in Europe - Champions League | Modified on Jan 19, 2026 12:02 AM
The UEFA Champions League group stage is approaching its climax, and the penultimate round brings a fascinating clash between Olympiacos and Bayer Leverkusen. The Greek side will host the German visitors in a match that could define their European fate. With both teams still fighting for playoff qualification, the stakes could not be higher. Olympiacos are desperate to stay alive in the competition, while Leverkusen aim to secure their place in the knockout rounds.
Olympiacos enter this decisive fixture with renewed confidence after a 0-2 away win against Atromitos on January 10, 2026. That result extended their unbeaten streak to five matches across all competitions, with three wins and two draws. During this run, they have averaged 1.4 goals scored and just 0.2 conceded per game, underlining their defensive solidity. Their home record is particularly impressive — they have avoided defeat in 19 of their last 20 matches at the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium, a venue that has become a fortress in recent months.
In the Champions League, however, the Greek side’s campaign has been less convincing. They currently sit 29th in the overall ranking, two points shy of the playoff cutoff. Despite their struggles in Europe, Olympiacos have shown resilience, scoring at least once in 19 of their last 20 home games. They have also managed to avoid trailing at half time in 18 of those fixtures, a sign of their consistency and tactical discipline.
Offensively, much will depend on Mehdi Taremi, who has been a standout performer domestically with ten goal involvements this season. Yet, his Champions League output has been modest, with only two contributions so far. The absence of Ayoub El Kaabi, away on international duty, could limit their attacking options, but the home crowd’s energy might inspire a strong performance. Olympiacos’ last meeting with Leverkusen dates back to 2002, when they secured a 2-0 victory, and they will be eager to replicate that success.
Bayer Leverkusen arrive in Greece after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Hoffenheim on January 17, 2026. That setback followed a mixed run of results — two wins, one draw, and two losses in their last five matches, with an average of 1.6 goals scored and 1.6 conceded per game. Despite their inconsistency in the Bundesliga, Leverkusen have been more reliable on the European stage, remaining unbeaten away from home in the Champions League this season (two wins and one draw).
Ranked 20th in the competition, the German side are in a favorable position to advance. They have lost only three of their last 22 group-stage matches, winning 13, and have been particularly effective against Greek opposition, remaining unbeaten in their last three encounters. Their attacking play often comes alive after the break — over 0.5 goals have been scored in the second half of each of their last 13 Champions League matches, a trend that highlights their late-game strength.
Leverkusen will be without Robert Andrich due to suspension, while Exequiel Palacios continues to recover from a groin injury. Edmond Tapsoba has returned from international duty but is expected to rest. In attack, Patrik Schick remains their main threat, having contributed to 11 goals this season, including two in the Champions League. His experience and finishing ability could prove decisive in a match where efficiency in front of goal will be crucial.
This encounter promises to be a tactical battle between two sides with contrasting strengths. Olympiacos will rely on their home advantage and defensive organization, while Leverkusen will look to exploit their superior attacking depth and European experience. The Greek side’s recent form suggests they are difficult to beat in Piraeus, but their struggles against German teams — winless in their last 13 such meetings — remain a concern.
Leverkusen’s away record in the Champions League gives them a psychological edge. They have already proven capable of handling pressure on the road, and their attacking rhythm often improves as the game progresses. However, Olympiacos’ resilience at home cannot be underestimated, especially given their strong defensive numbers and ability to score consistently in front of their fans.
Historically, matches between these two sides have produced goals, with an average of five per game across their previous meetings. Both teams have shown vulnerabilities at the back — Olympiacos conceding 13 and Leverkusen 12 in their respective group matches — suggesting that another high-scoring affair could be on the cards. The hosts will fight to keep their European hopes alive, but the visitors’ quality and experience might ultimately make the difference.
Olympiacos vs Bayer Leverkusen prediction by BetMines:
Over 2.5 goals with 60% probability.
This section provides average statistics and percentages on the main markets for the last 10 matches of both teams
Olympiacos F.C.
Bayer 04 Leverkusen
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0.5
3
7
0
10
1.5
4
6
1
9
2.5
7
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6
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4.5
10
0
7
3