Ahead of the clash with the revived Old Lady, the Werkself head coach believes the two remaining Bundesliga matches have to be won to ensure progress to the Champions League next term. "We know what we have to do – and that's win the game tomorrow. We can't afford to look at what Gladbach, Leipzig or Dortmund are doing but instead focus on ourselves. That's the only thing that will help us," said the 56-year-old at the pre-match press conference.
After a hectic season, the team from the capital face two dead rubbers in the remaining games – neither Europe nor relegation are possible – but Bosz sounded a warning about the opponents who are now coached by former Werkself manager Bruno Labbadia: "We know more hangs on the game for us than for Hertha Berlin. Nevertheless, we expect to face an opponent tomorrow who wants to win. That's what every professional athlete wants."
The Dutchman continued that everybody at the club wants the same energy shown at the empty Olympic Stadium as was evident in the 3-1 derby win against FC Köln. "There are two games left in the Bundesliga – two finals," declared Bosz.
It remains to be seen whether Sven Bender will play after going off against FC Köln due to injury. The 31-year-old will fly to Berlin today. But Bosz said there is a question mark over a possible appearance by the defender. The captain Lars Bender (foot) and Karim Bellarabi (muscle) will not be in the capital as they are still involved in individual training sessions. However, Bosz has not given up hope that the duo could return for the DFB Cup final against FC Bayern (4 July): "We're pretty confident the two of them will play a role. I think it's even looking very good at the moment,"
Three Black and Red defenders are in danger of a one-match ban in Berlin that would mean they would miss the game against Mainz 05: Aleksandar Dragovic, Jonathan Tah and Wendell have already picked up four yellow cards. Bosz finished off by saying: "We have to win the game tomorrow. So we'll use all the players available to us."
Match information:
Broadcasters: Sky and Werkself Radio (bayer04.de)
Referee: The referee will be announced on the day of the game
The international break produced a full range of emotions for Bayer 04’s women. While four Leverkusen players were in play-off action to try and reach the World Cup, including two important goals, there were others in friendly action. Here’s a round-up of all the results…
Show more
The NB Vintage Collection is here and available now! Members enjoy an exclusive priority purchase period (online shop only). Non-members will then be able to purchase items from Saturday 17 October (10:00 CEST). Sales will also begin at the same time at the Bayer 04 Fanwelt.
Show more
On Matchday 1 of the UEFA Europa League league phase, Lech Poznań suffered a heavy defeat at Crystal Palace. Now the Polish champions will be looking for a more successful outcome in their first home game against the Werkself this Thursday, 15 October (kick-off 18:45 CEST) - and banking on a strong attack. The lowdown on our next opponents.
Show more
Intercultural exchange: a youth team from Ouagadougou, the capital city of Burkina Faso, visited Leverkusen in the last few days. The players and staff from AD DUHA FC enjoyed a varied programme including training, a friendly - and a very special experience on Saturday afternoon.
Show more
