Tue Mar 11 20:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Leverkusen Gambles on Schick to Overthrow Bayern in Champions League Clash

**Leverkusen, Germany** – Bayer Leverkusen will attempt the improbable, aiming to overturn a 3-0 first-leg deficit against Bayern Munich in their Champions League Round of 16 tie. Manager Xabi Alonso has sprung a surprise, starting striker Patrick Schick – a significant departure from the team’s recent strategy against Bayern – leaving attacking players Victor Boniface, Emiliano Buendia, Amine Adli, and Nathan Tella on the bench. The move comes despite the absence of Leverkusen’s creative midfielder Florian Wirtz due to an ankle injury. Goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky also returns to the starting lineup, replacing Matej Kovar who had a subpar performance in the first leg.

Bayern Munich, meanwhile, makes nine changes from their weekend Bundesliga loss to Bochum, fielding a strong lineup under manager Vincent Kompany. The team is missing Manuel Neuer, with Jonas Urbig continuing in goal. Joshua Kimmich captains the side, alongside Leon Goretzka in midfield, while the offensive pressure will once again fall on Harry Kane and Jamal Musiala.

Alonso is urging his team to believe in a comeback, despite the daunting task ahead. The crucial second leg kicks off on March 11th, 2025, at 9 PM local time in Leverkusen.

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