#FCSPB04: match facts
Bayer 04 haven't lost to St. Pauli in the Bundesliga since 1996. In the seven meetings in the German top flight since then, the Werkself have triumphed in five. If Kasper Hjulmand's side avoid defeat again on this trip to the Millerntor, they'll also continue their current Bundesliga record of 35 consecutive away games unbeaten. Someone who's likely to contribute to that again is Patrik Schick, who's scored more goals on the road in the Bundesliga in 2025 than any other player. The Czech has netted eight times in 11 outings, including braces in each of the last two.
The Werkself can expect a hard-fought tussle in Hamburg. So far at home, the North Germans have held Borussia Dortmund to a 3-3 draw and beaten FC Augsburg 2-1. However, the Black-and-Reds are not shy of a battle themselves, as proven by the match statistics from the season so far: Bayer 04 boast the best percentages of tackles won (55.3%).
focus on st. pauli
With the most successful start to a Bundesliga campaign in the club's history and seven points from the first three games, the Kiezkicker host the Werkself with confidence on Saturday afternoon. Coach Alexander Blessin already established his team as one of the top defences last season - St. Pauli conceded the second-fewest goals in the league. Behind the first-choice back three of Adam Dzwigala, Eric Smith and Hauke Wahl, they have a strong goalkeeper in Nikola Vasilj, who has developed a reputation as a penalty killer. The Bosnian has saved six of the seven penalties he's faced in the Bundesliga. Although the defence faltered for the first time in the 2-0 defeat at Stuttgart last weekend, St. Pauli have also shown more of an attacking side at the start of this season thanks to two new signings in particular. Andreas Hountondji (from Burnley, England) has scored three goals, while Mathias Pereira Lage (from Stade Brest, France) has brought pace and creativity to the team's play, providing one assist. There's more detailed info on the surprise package from the port city in our extensive opposition report.
3,000 Fans at St. Pauli - the fan info
As usual, Leverkusen can count on the loud support of their away fans at the Millerntor-Stadion, with 3,000 supporters roaring on the team from the visitors' section. As ever, the fan info has all the need-to-know information for travelling fans.
Petersen in charge
Martin Petersen is the referee for this afternoon's fixture. Bayer 04 have largely positive memories of their seven matches under the 40-year-old's guidance, with four wins and a draw. The Stuttgart official's last assignment involving Leverkusen was the 3-0 success at Bremen in November 2023. His assistants on the touchlines are Robert Wessel and Alexander Sather. Lukas Benen is the fourth official and Benjamin Brand the VAR.
Werkself Radio with Falko Götz
As ever, Werkself Radio will be broadcasting live from the Millerntor. Long-term Werkself player, Bundeslia coach and current Bayer 04 scout Falko Götz joins commentator Niko Hartmann as he did in the away game at Bremen. Commentary begins half an hour before kick-off and is available on bayer04.de and in the Bayer 04 app, where you'll also find live score updates.
