Matchday news #FCUB04: Continue unbeaten run at set-piece specialists Union Berlin

#FCUB04: Match facts

Bayer 04 are unbeaten in their last 10 encounters with Union, conceding just a single goal across the last seven, of which they won five. The reverse fixture at the BayArena saw Christian Kofane net his first Bundesliga goal and Ernest Poku get his second in a 2-0 victory.

As was also the case at the time, the Werkself have been able to exert control on games of late through disciplined defensive work. No team in the Bundesliga has conceded fewer goals than Kasper Hjulmand’s men over the last four matchdays (two); Union have let in 10.

Focus on Union

Saturday’s hosts may find Leverkusen’s style of play ideal, given they like to hand control of the ball to their opponents and try to counter quickly. Steffen Baumgart’s men are second bottom in the Bundesliga for possession (38 percent) and rock bottom for passes per game (324), while the Werkself rank second in both (60 percent and 632). Where Union excel is in their work rate, contesting the most challenges per 90 minutes in the division (109), and at set pieces, where they have scored 12 of their 28 goals this campaign. That style has seen the Köpenick club beat RB Leipzig, VfB Stuttgart and very nearly also Bayern Munich in 2025/26. But they come into this game on a run of seven games without a win. Find out more about Union in our opposition profile.

2,500 Fans in Berlin

The Werkself can count on the support of around 2,500 fans inside the Stadion An der Alten Försterei.

Osmers in charge

The German FA (DFB) have appointed Harm Osmers to oversee the game. It’s his 22nd fixture involving Leverkusen, which includes a 3-2 victory away at Union. The Werkself have won their last seven Bundesliga games with the 41-year-old in charge. His assistants are Dominik Schaal and Christian Gittelmann. The VAR is Arne Aarnink.