Preview and betting odds for Mainz vs Leverkusen at 20:30 on October 18, Round 7 of the Bundesliga

Preview and betting odds for Mainz vs Leverkusen (20:30, October 18). Predictions, expected lineups, and expert insights for the Bundesliga Round 7 clash between Mainz and Leverkusen.

Match preview Mainz vs Leverkusen

90-minute odds: 0 : 0

Total goals: 2 3/4

Mainz is in deep trouble, sitting 16th with only 4 points from 6 games. Under coach Bo Henriksen, they have lost 4 of 6 Bundesliga matches, including a run of 3 straight defeats conceding 6 goals, and have not won at home in Mewa Arena since February. Their defense is a major worry, allowing an average of 2 goals per match, while their attack has scored just 2 goals at home. They recently secured a 1-0 win against Omonia Nicosia in the Conference League midweek, but their poor Bundesliga form means they desperately need points to escape relegation. Their head-to-head record is unfavorable, having lost 21 of 39 games against Leverkusen, although they drew 2-2 in the return fixture in May 2025.

Leverkusen, coached by Kasper Hjulmand, is flourishing with 11 points from 6 games (3 wins, 2 draws, 1 loss), currently 5th, and unbeaten in 7 matches across all competitions since a defeat to Hoffenheim in August. They recently beat Union Berlin 2-0, averaging 2 goals per game, and remain unbeaten away in the 2025 Bundesliga season (6 wins, 6 draws in 12 matches). Die Werkself is targeting a top 4 finish but needs to shore up their defense after conceding in 3 consecutive away games. This match presents an opportunity to close the gap on second-place Dortmund. Their head-to-head record favors them with 21 wins, including a 1-0 victory in January 2025.

Mainz has home advantage and motivation to overcome their crisis, but their weak defense will struggle against Leverkusen’s potent attack. Die Werkself’s superior form and historical edge suggest they will dominate the match. The game could be thrilling with goals coming from counterattacks.