Leverkusen edge Marseille in a tight one, 2-1

European nights under the lights at the BayArena. Leverkusen vs Marseille. I've been looking forward to this one since the fixtures dropped, and I'm not ashamed to admit it. Two proper clubs with proper histories, and a game that could go either way. But I've got a call, and I'm sticking to it.

What the away end will feel like

Marseille fans travel in numbers, and they'll make themselves heard. The BayArena holds around 30,000, and the away section will be packed with that famous Marseille noise. It's a proper European away day for them, and they'll enjoy it. But the home crowd will be up for it too. Leverkusen have been strong at home this season, and the atmosphere should be electric. I've been to a few of these and the Germans know how to build a racket. The Marseille ultras will bring their drums and their flares, and for 90 minutes it'll be a cauldron. But will it be enough to rattle Leverkusen? I doubt it.

The number that explains this fixture

Leverkusen have scored in every home game this season, according to the league's published figures. That's a run they'll fancy continuing. Marseille, on the other hand, have kept just two clean sheets on the road. That tells you a lot. The Germans are relentless going forward, and the French side have a soft underbelly away from the Stade Vélodrome. The Stade Vélodrome holds over 67,000, but away from that fortress, Marseille have looked shaky. Leverkusen's home form is the reason I'm leaning their way. They've got goals in them, and they'll create chances.

Key battle: Florian Wirtz vs Leonardo Balerdi

Wirtz is the heartbeat of this Leverkusen side. He's a worldie of a talent, and he'll be looking to pull the strings from midfield. Balerdi, the Marseille centre-back, will have his hands full. The Argentine is strong and aggressive, but Wirtz's movement and quick feet could cause him nightmares. If Balerdi gets dragged out of position, Leverkusen's runners will exploit the space. I fancy Wirtz to win this duel more often than not. Balerdi will need help from his midfield, and if he doesn't get it, it could be a long night for the French side.

The player who decides it

For me, it's Victor Boniface. The big Nigerian striker is a handful. He's strong, quick, and he knows where the goal is. Marseille's defence has struggled with physical strikers this season, and Boniface fits the bill. He'll occupy both centre-backs and create space for Wirtz and the wide men. If he's on his game, Leverkusen win. It's that simple. I've seen him bully defenders before, and I expect more of the same here.

My call: Leverkusen to edge it

I'm going with a home win. Leverkusen's home form and Marseille's away struggles point to a German victory. The French side will have their moments, and they'll probably score, but I think Leverkusen will have too much. Pundits expect a tight game, and I agree. But I'm backing the home side to come out on top.

Predicted score: Bayer Leverkusen 2-1 Marseille

Leverkusen 2-1 Marseille. That's my verdict, and I'm owning it. It won't be easy, and Marseille will push them all the way, but I think the Germans will find a way. If you disagree, fair enough. That's what football's about.

What time is kickoff?

Kickoff times aren't confirmed yet, but it's expected to be an evening game. Check local listings closer to the day.

Where is the match being played?

The game is at the BayArena, Leverkusen's home ground, which holds around 30,000 spectators.

Who is the favorite?

Leverkusen are slight favorites due to their strong home form, but Marseille have enough quality to make it close.

What are the key players to watch?

Florian Wirtz and Victor Boniface for Leverkusen, and Leonardo Balerdi for Marseille. Wirtz's creativity and Boniface's finishing could be decisive.

How have these teams been performing?

Leverkusen have been scoring regularly at home, while Marseille have struggled for clean sheets on their travels.