The stage is set for a thrilling beginning to the 2025/26 Google Pixel Frauen-Bundesliga season as FC Bayern Munich Women host Bayer 04 Leverkusen at the iconic Allianz Arena this Saturday evening. Kick-off is scheduled for 5:45 p.m. CEST, and anticipation is sky-high with more than 50,000 fans expected in attendance—a figure that once again underscores the growing prominence of women’s football in Germany.
After an impressive prelude to the season, Bayern head into the curtain-raiser with confidence. Last weekend, José Barcala’s side claimed a 4-2 victory over Wolfsburg to secure the Supercup, extending the momentum from their title-winning 2024/25 campaign that included an astonishing 13 consecutive league wins. The reigning double winners are determined to carry that same intensity into their title defense.
Speaking at Thursday’s press conference, head coach José Barcala highlighted the challenges Leverkusen pose: “We’re expecting a team that plays with very high intensity and presses early. Transitions will be key, so we need to remain disciplined, structured, and sharp in possession.” Meanwhile, midfielder Georgia Stanway stressed Bayern’s mindset: “Our demand is to always be a step ahead. Leverkusen are tough opponents who work extremely hard, but our goal is to dictate the game through possession.”
Leverkusen, led by Roberto Pätzold, arrive with plenty of ambition after achieving their best-ever Bundesliga finish last season, securing fourth place. Their pre-season was a mixed bag, with strong wins against Ajax (1-0), Westerlo (3-0), and Standard Liège (7-1), but also setbacks against Hoffenheim (2-0) and Wolfsburg (3-2). Despite their progress, Leverkusen are yet to solve the Bayern puzzle, having lost both league encounters last term.
Team news presents some challenges for Barcala in his Bundesliga debut as coach. Key figures Barbara Dunst and Giulia Gwinn remain sidelined with knee injuries, while captain Glódis Viggósdóttir is also unavailable due to a knee issue. Nonetheless, Bayern’s depth and quality remain undeniable, with players like Sarah Zadrazil—who has featured in every match at the Allianz Arena—ready to make their mark once again.
Saturday’s showdown promises to be more than just a football match. It is another milestone for women’s football, with the Allianz Arena transforming into a cathedral of passion, ambition, and dreams. With over 50,000 supporters poised to roar, the double winners will seek to start their journey with a statement performance against an ambitious Leverkusen side.
