‘Fans will give us an extra boost’: U19s host FC Bayern in semi-final tie

"We're at a stage of the season where everything is decided. Now it's about performing at the right moment. The lads have impressively demonstrated again and again over the last few months that they can be on the money," said Sergi Runge ahead of the "most important game of the season so far on a national level."

The Spaniard also believes fans can play an important role in the battle to reach the final at the Ulrich Haberland Stadium: "We are very happy that so many tickets have already been sold. We are very grateful for the support of the fans who will definitely give the lads an extra boost!"

Stepanov back – prolific FCB attack

In contrast to the quarter-final win on penalties away to Schalke 04, Artem Stepanov is set to return to the matchday squad for Leverkusen. The striker was suspended for the game against the Royal Blues. Runge on the Ukrainian who will join second division FC Nürnberg on loan in the summer: "Basically, we are happy about every fit and available player. Of course, Artem is very important to us. He not only stands out with his goals but he also makes his teammates better."

In respect of the next opponents, who scored the most goals in the group stages, Runge also explained: "They have good players in every position and are particularly dangerous after they win possession with their pace. We have to stand up to them both individually and as a team as well."

Next Final in sight

If the U19s succeed in reaching the final of the German championship on Saturday then it would be the next final involving a Leverkusen youth team following on from last year's thriller for the U17s against Borussia Dortmund (2-3 a.e.t.). The Bayer 04 team back then with the majority now in the current U19 squad and Runge as the coach: "I'm clearly convinced the setback will make them all stronger. I've said that to the lads as well. That defeat in the final is also reason why the lads are so hungry this year and have overcome lots of hurdles."

The final for the German championship will be played in Leverkusen on the weekend of 17/18 May if the Bayer 04 U19s are involved.

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Tickets for the semi-final against FC Bayern are on open sale.

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The matchday ticket office will open at 10:00 CEST when the stadium opens – providing tickets are still available.