The Bayer 04 Women’s team lacked consistency in finishing away to SC Freiburg (1-2), in the DFB Pokal at Hamburg SV (2-4 a.e.t.) and against SGS Essen (0-1). "We didn't put in a bad performance and were even more dominant at times compared with similar games last season. However, we've lost our killer instinct and effectiveness to a certain extent," said Pätzold with regard to the three defeats, but he is optimistic about the coming weeks: "We're very confident we'll have more space again in the coming games so we are better able to play our fast transition game, which makes us dangerous." He also said: "We would do well not to over celebrate when we win and not to talk everything down when we lose."
The international break, that saw a total of nine Leverkusen players away with their national teams, may have come at just the right time given the current lack of success. "We had a really good friendly against a strong opponent, which gave us a lot of confidence," said Pätzold talking about the 3-2 win against Dutch league leaders Twente Enschede: "The change of scenery wasn't bad for those who were away, they were able to recharge their batteries with their national teams. I have great confidence in the quality of the squad. We have a lot planned for the last three weeks before the winter break."
The same is likely to apply to the visitors from Leipzig, who, like the Werkself, have lost three times in a row recently and, ninth in the Google Pixel Women's Bundesliga on 13 points, are six points behind the Black and Reds (sixth). "They certainly imagined a different start to the season. In the meantime, they’ve had a successful phase, but recently they haven't played badly three times, but like us, the results haven't come," said the Leverkusen coach, praising the RB Leipzig approach to the game: "Leipzig remain true to their style of play, detached from their opponents and they play bold attacking football. They have great individual class, especially in attack." For him, one thing is clear: "Both teams will be full of energy to finally celebrate another win."
The hosts should be encouraged by the possible return of number one keeper Friederike Repohl in goal. The 31-year-old missed the last six matches due to a muscle injury in mid-October. "If Rike feels good after the last few training sessions, it's possible that she'll start straight away," said Pätzold: "She's our captain, one of the best goalkeepers in the league and, with her experience, provides incredible support to the team. We're very happy to have her back."
The coach hopes Cornelia Kramer will get her first minutes of action. The Denmark international, the top scorer for the Bayer 04 Women's team in 2024/25 with twelve Bundesliga goals, has been sorely missed in attack. "Everyone also benefits from her infectious nature," said Pätzold. Germany international Carlotta Wamser is about to return to training following injury. Ida Daedelow (knock), Charlotte Voll (shoulder injury) and Shen Menglu (torn cruciate) are also out, while Claudia Wenger (knock) is doubtful.
Tickets for the match at UHS are available HERE from the online ticket shop and from the matchday ticket office from 13:00. While stocks last, Bayer 04 will be handing out a pre-Christmas surprise to stadium visitors on St Nicholas' Day.
Werkself live here:
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