With a new hero, but almost no defenders, Bayer Leverkusen made the 36-hour journey to Belarus on Monday. The aim was clear ahead of the penultimate group match of the Champions League against BATE Borisov (18:00 CET) – win, and then fly home.
But a conflict situation may well give rise to an explosive performance, and as Bernd Leno says, they still have a "small chance." "We have to be very careful," said head of sport Rudi Völler, addressing all those who think the crisis is over following their 3-1 Bundesliga triumph over Eintracht Frankfurt. "It will be even harder in Borisov, as BATE can still attain third place and they have a great atmosphere in their small stadium."
The clash between the German and Belarussian club is about securing a successful season in Europe and thereby saving reputation and making profit. Bayer need a win in Belarus and against Barcelona, who defeated Real Madrid 4-0 last weekend. "We want to give ourselves a chance of playing Champions League after Christmas," said Schmidt. "We want to win, and give hope," emphasized Völler. "We want to win the game, and at least guarantee ourselves Europa League football.
Star striker Chicharito
There are two reasons to be optimistic, the win against Frankfurt and the fact that the Belarussian side’s season ended two weeks ago. Javier Hernandez’s form is another reason to be cheerful, and the Bayer fans have celebrated him with a photo montage online, which portrays him as a footballing God.
"I have seen the picture," said the Mexican after ten goals in his last seven competitive games, "but I would happily trade my goals for points in the Bundesliga or Champions league." Chicharito’s form will help significantly after the loss of the former Bundesliga golden boot winner Stefan Kießling through illness.
Even if Hernandez manages to score in Belarus, it could still be a tight affair for Leverkusen. After a 2-0 defeat to AS Roma, Ömer Toprak and Kyrgiakos Papadopoulos have both picked up injuries, which may be detrimental as they will also be without the long term absentees Tin Jedvaj and captain Lars Bender. Manager Roger Schmidt wants to stay positive though. "The fact that these players are missing is a huge opportunity for the younger players."
