OFI vs Bayer prediction: expert analysis, possible lineups, October 22, 2026
The match between OFI and Bayer will take place on October 22, 2026, in the third round of the Europa League league phase. Few will understand if the visitors drop points here.
OFI vs Bayer team news and expert analysis
The club from Heraklion finished only seventh last season — but unexpectedly lifted the domestic cup. After a strong start to the current league campaign, they also claimed the Super Cup. Following Xabi Alonso's departure, the Leverkusen side finished only sixth in 2025/26. They have already suffered setbacks in the opening rounds this season as well.
The Greeks have pleasantly surprised with their start in European competition. In August, they defeated CSKA Sofia in both legs of the qualifying round. In the autumn, they secured a convincing 2-0 win over another German side, Hoffenheim. They also scored against Rennes, but this time lost 1-2.
The Germans comfortably dealt with Celje in the opening round, scoring a couple of unanswered goals against the modest visitors. Against Lech in October, they went one step further and recorded a commanding 4-0 victory.
Previous matches: OFI vs Bayer
This will be the clubs' first-ever meeting.
The visitors are in good form and have plenty of experience. We recommend backing them to win this match away from home with a -1.5-goal handicap (odds — 1.67).
OFI vs Bayer: key statistics and trends
- OFI have won three of their four league matches
- OFI score and concede an average of 1.57 goals per match
- Both teams have scored in 43% of OFI matches, with an average total of 3.14 goals per game
- Bayer have won their previous two matches
- Bayer score an average of 2.67 goals and concede 1.5 goals per match
- Both teams have scored in 67% of Bayer matches, with an average total of 4.17 goals per game
OFI vs Bayer: possible starting lineups
OFI play in a 1-3-4-3 formation (possible lineup): Christogeorgos — Krizmanic, Pungouras, Kotsoulas — Athanasiou, Bouchalakis, Androutsos, Dieckmann — Kantalapiedra, Kodro, Fountas
Bayer play in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (possible lineup): Flekken — Medina, Tapsoba, Bade, Vazquez — Garcia, Andrich — Tillman, Diaby, Terrier — Schick
Place your bets on the upcoming match and follow your team's position in the Europa League standings
