Borussia Mönchengladbach vs RB Leipzig Match Preview: Bundesliga 2025/26 – Matchday 12
Match Details
Competition: Bundesliga 2025/26 – Matchday 12
Date: Friday, November 28, 2025
Kick-Off: 19:30 GMT (20:30 CET)
Venue: Borussia-Park, Mönchengladbach, Germany
Referee: TBA
TV Coverage: Sky Sports (Germany), ESPN+ (US)
Current Standings and Context
This Friday night Bundesliga encounter brings together two clubs with contrasting fortunes in the 2025/26 season. RB Leipzig currently occupy second place in the table with 22 points from ten matches, trailing runaway leaders Bayern Munich by six points. Meanwhile, Borussia Mönchengladbach find themselves in a disappointing 12th position with just nine points, struggling to replicate last season’s mid-table respectability.
The stakes are significant for both teams. Leipzig need victory to maintain pressure on Bayern Munich and consolidate their position among the Champions League qualification spots. For Gladbach, three points would provide breathing space from the relegation zone and offer momentum heading into a crucial December period.
This fixture arrives at a pivotal moment. Leipzig are coming off a confidence-boosting 2-0 victory over Werder Bremen that returned them to second place, while Gladbach’s recent form has shown signs of improvement after a difficult start to the campaign. The Foals have avoided defeat in their last three league matches, collecting two wins and one draw.
Team Form Analysis
RB Leipzig – Title Challengers Finding Rhythm
Ole Werner’s RB Leipzig are establishing themselves as Bayern Munich’s primary challengers for the Bundesliga title. The Red Bulls have collected 22 points from ten matches, winning seven games while suffering just two defeats. Their recent 2-0 victory over Werder Bremen demonstrated their quality, with teenage sensation Assan Ouédraogo scoring a brilliant goal to seal the points.
Leipzig’s campaign has been characterized by consistency and attacking prowess. They have scored 20 goals while conceding 13, establishing one of the league’s most potent attacking units. The partnership between Loïs Openda and Benjamin Šeško continues to flourish, providing the goalscoring threat that makes Leipzig so dangerous.
However, their Champions League struggles provide context for domestic focus. Leipzig have endured a difficult European campaign, and the Bundesliga now represents their clearest path to silverware. This makes every domestic point crucial, particularly against teams they should be beating.
Recent Form (Last 5 matches across all competitions):
W-W-L-W-W
Away Record:
Leipzig’s away form has been solid with three wins, one draw and two defeats on the road this season. They travel to Borussia-Park with confidence, knowing they have won five of their eight previous Bundesliga meetings with Gladbach at this venue, never losing at the Foals’ home ground in the league.
More impressively, Marco Rose – now coaching Leipzig – remains unbeaten in eleven consecutive home Bundesliga matches dating from his time at Leipzig. His tactical acumen and familiarity with this fixture from his previous spell as Gladbach manager provides additional psychological advantage.
Borussia Mönchengladbach – Inconsistent but Improving
Gerardo Seoane’s Borussia Mönchengladbach have endured a challenging campaign. The Foals sit in 12th position with just nine points from ten matches, winning only two games while drawing three and losing five. This represents a significant regression from last season’s steady mid-table finish.
However, recent form suggests improvement. Gladbach are unbeaten in their last three league matches, securing victories over Werder Bremen (4-1) and FC Köln (3-1) alongside a goalless draw against Freiburg. This run has lifted them away from the immediate relegation concerns and provided optimism that they can climb the table.
Offensively, Gladbach have shown quality, scoring 13 goals in ten matches. The partnership between Alassane Pléa and Tim Kleindienst has provided consistent goal threat when both are fit and available. Defensively, however, they remain vulnerable, conceding 19 goals – the joint-eighth worst defensive record in the Bundesliga.
Recent Form (Last 5 matches across all competitions):
W-D-W-W-L
Home Record:
Gladbach’s home form represents both opportunity and concern. While Borussia-Park traditionally provides a passionate atmosphere, the Foals have struggled for consistency at home this season. They have won two, drawn one and lost two of their five home league matches, collecting just seven points from a possible 15.
Crucially, Gladbach have never beaten Leipzig at Borussia-Park in the Bundesliga, recording three draws and five defeats across their eight previous meetings. This psychological barrier represents a significant hurdle to overcome.
Head-to-Head Record
The historical record between these clubs favors RB Leipzig significantly. In eight previous Bundesliga meetings at Borussia-Park, Leipzig have won five times, drawn three, and never tasted defeat. This dominance extends to recent encounters, with Leipzig completing the double over Gladbach last season without conceding a goal in either fixture.
Recent Encounters:
Last season’s meetings both ended in Leipzig victories – 2-0 at Borussia-Park and 1-0 at Red Bull Arena. These results underlined the quality gap between the teams, with Leipzig’s superior organization and attacking quality proving decisive on both occasions.
The November 2024 fixture between these teams ended in a goalless draw, one of the rare occasions Gladbach have avoided defeat against Leipzig. However, that result came at Red Bull Arena, and Gladbach’s home record against the Saxons remains winless.
Statistical Context:
Leipzig’s unbeaten record at Borussia-Park creates enormous psychological advantage. Marco Rose’s familiarity with both clubs adds an intriguing subplot – the Leipzig coach knows Gladbach’s strengths and weaknesses intimately from his successful spell managing the Foals between 2019 and 2021.
Gladbach desperately need to break this mental barrier. Facing Leipzig without the burden of previous defeats could liberate their players to express themselves more freely, but history suggests Leipzig’s tactical discipline and quality will prove difficult to overcome.
Tactical Analysis
Borussia Mönchengladbach’s Approach
Gerardo Seoane will deploy his attacking 4-2-3-1 formation that has brought success in recent weeks. The Swiss manager favors an expansive, entertaining style that creates numerous goal-scoring opportunities while occasionally leaving defensive vulnerabilities.
Gladbach’s matches have featured an average of over two goals, reflecting their commitment to attacking football. Against Leipzig’s quality, this approach carries significant risk but also potential reward if they can exploit the visitors’ occasional defensive lapses.
Key Tactical Elements:
- High pressing to disrupt Leipzig’s build-up play
- Exploiting wide areas through dynamic wing play
- Quick vertical transitions when winning possession
- Set-piece threat from corners and free-kicks
- Physical intensity to match Leipzig’s work rate
The suspension of Tim Kleindienst represents a significant blow. The German striker has been Gladbach’s most consistent goal threat alongside Alassane Pléa, and his absence forces tactical adjustments. Tomáš Čvančara is expected to deputize, making his first start in over two months after injury.
RB Leipzig’s Game Plan
Marco Rose will maintain his flexible tactical approach, likely utilizing a 3-4-2-1 or 4-2-3-1 formation depending on circumstances. The German manager emphasizes aggressive pressing, quick transitions, and exploiting space through intelligent movement.
Leipzig rank among the Bundesliga’s most organized teams defensively while maintaining attacking threat through their front three. Their ability to control matches through possession and territory makes them particularly dangerous against teams that commit numbers forward.
Key Tactical Elements:
- Compact defensive shape when out of possession
- Quick counter-attacks exploiting defensive transitions
- Utilizing Openda and Šeško’s pace in behind
- Controlling midfield through Haidara’s defensive work
- Set-piece threat from defensive players
The potential absence of several key players through injury forces Rose to adjust his approach. However, Leipzig possess sufficient squad depth to compensate, with quality replacements available across all positions.
Team News and Injuries
Borussia Mönchengladbach – Key Absences
Gladbach face several notable concerns affecting squad depth and tactical flexibility. Most significantly, Tim Kleindienst serves a suspension following his accumulation of yellow cards, robbing Seoane of his joint-top scorer.
Confirmed Absences:
- Tim Kleindienst (suspended)
- Jonas Omlin (groin injury)
- Moritz Nicolas (injury)
- Yvandro Borges Sanches (long-term injury)
Fitness Doubts:
- Nico Elvedi (muscle injury – returned to training)
- Nathan N’Goumou (muscle injury – nearing return)
- Franck Honorat (calf injury – returned last weekend)
Positive News:
Franck Honorat made his first start of 2025 last weekend after recovering from a calf injury, providing attacking quality down the flanks. Tomáš Čvančara is expected to make his first start in over two months, replacing the suspended Kleindienst.
Gladbach’s goalkeeper situation remains concerning with both Jonas Omlin and Moritz Nicolas injured. A backup goalkeeper will likely deputize, creating additional pressure on the defense to remain organized throughout the 90 minutes.
RB Leipzig – Several Injury Concerns
Leipzig travel to Mönchengladbach with multiple fitness concerns affecting their squad depth. Manager Marco Rose faces difficult selection decisions as he attempts to balance the demanding schedule with keeping players fit.
Confirmed Absences:
- Xaver Schlager (ACL injury – long-term)
- David Raum (ankle surgery – several weeks)
- Xavi Simons (ankle injury – out for extended period)
- Assan Ouédraogo (knee operation – recovering)
- Nicolas Seiwald (adductor problems)
Fitness Doubts:
- Christoph Baumgartner (head injury on international duty)
- Benjamin Henrichs (fitness concern)
- Antonio Nusa (fitness concern)
Tactical Impact:
The absence of Xavi Simons represents Leipzig’s most significant concern. The Dutch playmaker has been instrumental in their attacking play, and his extended absence forces tactical adjustments. Christoph Baumgartner would normally deputize, but his head injury sustained on international duty makes his availability uncertain.
David Raum’s ankle surgery weakens Leipzig’s left-back options, while Xaver Schlager’s ACL injury removes defensive midfield depth. However, Leipzig’s squad quality means they possess adequate replacements who maintain the team’s competitive level.
Predicted Lineups
Borussia Mönchengladbach (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Tobias Sippel
Defense: Joe Scally, Ko Itakura, Nico Elvedi, Luca Ullrich
Midfield: Rocco Reitz, Julian Weigl (c)
Attacking Midfield: Franck Honorat, Alassane Pléa, Robin Hack
Striker: Tomáš Čvančara
Substitutes: Jan Olschowsky, Marvin Friedrich, Fabio Chiarodia, Stefan Lainer, Florian Neuhaus, Kevin Stöger, Nathan N’Goumou, Shio Fukuda
RB Leipzig (3-4-2-1):
Goalkeeper: Maarten Vandevoordt
Defense: Lutsharel Geertruida, Willi Orbán (c), Castello Lukeba
Midfield: Kosta Nedeljković, Amadou Haidara, Lukas Klostermann, Max Finkgräfe
Attacking Midfield: Benjamin Šeško, Arthur Vermeeren
Striker: Loïs Openda
Substitutes: Péter Gulácsi, El Chadaille Bitshiabu, Benjamin Henrichs, Nicolas Seiwald, Antonio Nusa, Christoph Baumgartner, André Silva
Key Players to Watch
Borussia Mönchengladbach
Alassane Pléa: The French forward has been Gladbach’s most consistent attacking threat with four goals across all competitions this season. His intelligent movement, technical quality and finishing ability make him the Foals’ primary goal threat in Kleindienst’s absence. Pléa’s partnership with Čvančara will be crucial in troubling Leipzig’s defense.
Robin Hack: The attacking midfielder scored in Gladbach’s recent victory over FC Köln and provides creativity and goal threat from deeper positions. His ability to find space between the lines could unlock Leipzig’s organized defense.
Julian Weigl: The experienced midfielder captains Gladbach and provides the defensive foundation that allows their attackers to flourish. His positioning, passing range and tactical intelligence will be essential in controlling midfield against Leipzig’s technical players.
Franck Honorat: Fresh from his first start of 2025, the French winger brings pace, directness and crossing quality down the flanks. His return strengthens Gladbach’s attacking options considerably.
RB Leipzig
Loïs Openda: The Belgian striker has been sensational this season, forming a devastating partnership with Benjamin Šeško. His pace, movement and clinical finishing make him Leipzig’s most dangerous attacking weapon. Openda scored in Leipzig’s victory over Borussia Dortmund earlier in the season, demonstrating his quality in high-pressure fixtures.
Benjamin Šeško: The young Slovenian forward continues his impressive development, providing both goals and creative quality. His physical presence combined with technical ability makes him difficult to defend against, particularly when running at defenders.
Amadou Haidara: The Malian midfielder provides the defensive shield that allows Leipzig’s attackers to flourish. His ball-winning abilities, work rate and tactical intelligence will be crucial in disrupting Gladbach’s attacking rhythm.
Willi Orbán: The Hungarian captain leads Leipzig’s defense with authority and organizational skills. His aerial ability and positioning will be tested against Gladbach’s attacking threats, particularly from set-pieces.
Statistical Insights
Borussia Mönchengladbach Statistics
- 9 points from ten Bundesliga matches (2W, 3D, 5L)
- Currently 12th in Bundesliga table
- Scored 13 goals, conceded 19 in Bundesliga
- Unbeaten in last three league matches (2W, 1D)
- Won two of five home matches this season
- Never beaten Leipzig at Borussia-Park in Bundesliga (0W, 3D, 5L)
- Matches average over 3 goals per game
RB Leipzig Statistics
- 22 points from ten Bundesliga matches (7W, 1D, 2L)
- Currently 2nd in Bundesliga, six points behind Bayern Munich
- Scored 20 goals, conceded 13 in Bundesliga
- Won three of five away matches this season
- Unbeaten at Borussia-Park in Bundesliga (5W, 3D, 0L)
- Completed double over Gladbach last season without conceding
- Average 2 goals per game
Historical Context
- Leipzig unbeaten in eight Bundesliga visits to Borussia-Park
- Marco Rose unbeaten in eleven consecutive home Bundesliga matches as manager
- Gladbach took just one point from four meetings with Leipzig last season
- Both teams’ matches this season average over 2.5 goals
Match Predictions and Betting Insights
Expert Analysis
The contrasting circumstances and historical record create a fascinating dynamic. Leipzig arrive as clear favorites based on form, quality and historical dominance at this venue. However, Gladbach’s recent improvement and desperate need for points suggest they will provide stern resistance.
Bookmakers favor Leipzig heavily, reflecting the quality gap and historical precedent. However, Gladbach’s home advantage and improved form make them capable of causing problems, particularly if Leipzig approach the match with complacency.
Key Factors
- Historical Dominance: Leipzig’s unbeaten record at Borussia-Park provides enormous psychological advantage
- Form Contrast: Leipzig’s title challenge vs Gladbach’s relegation concerns
- Key Absences: Kleindienst’s suspension weakens Gladbach; multiple injuries affect Leipzig
- Tactical Battle: Seoane’s attacking philosophy vs Rose’s organized approach
- Home Advantage: Borussia-Park atmosphere could inspire Gladbach to break their psychological barrier
Goals and Scoring Patterns
Expect goals at both ends given the attacking quality on display and both teams’ defensive vulnerabilities. Gladbach have conceded regularly this season, while Leipzig’s defensive record suggests they can be breached with quality attacking play.
Over 2.5 goals represents strong value with high probability. Both teams possess attacking weapons capable of troubling defenses, and recent meetings have consistently featured goals. Both teams to score appears likely given offensive capabilities and defensive concerns.
Leipzig to win and over 2.5 goals offers excellent value, combining their quality advantage with both teams’ tendency to be involved in high-scoring encounters.
Score Prediction: Borussia Mönchengladbach 1-2 RB Leipzig
Leipzig will secure a narrow victory that maintains pressure on Bayern Munich and consolidates their position in second place. The visitors’ superior quality and tactical organization should prove decisive despite Gladbach’s home advantage and improved recent form.
Gladbach will score through their attacking quality, most likely via Alassane Pléa’s intelligent movement or a set-piece opportunity. However, Leipzig’s defensive discipline and counter-attacking threat should deliver victory through goals from Openda and Šeško.
The match will be competitive throughout, with Gladbach pushing desperately for an equalizer that would represent their first-ever Bundesliga victory over Leipzig at Borussia-Park. However, Leipzig’s experience in managing tight matches and Rose’s tactical acumen should see them navigate this challenge successfully.
Final Verdict
Winner: RB Leipzig (2-1)
This Friday night encounter represents a crucial fixture for both teams’ contrasting ambitions. Leipzig need victory to maintain their title challenge and demonstrate they can handle the pressure of chasing Bayern Munich. For Gladbach, three points would provide psychological relief and momentum heading into a challenging December period.
Leipzig’s historical dominance at Borussia-Park creates enormous psychological advantage. They have never lost at this venue in the Bundesliga, winning five times and drawing three across their eight previous visits. This mental barrier weighs heavily on Gladbach, who desperately need to prove they can compete with the league’s elite teams.
Marco Rose’s familiarity with Gladbach from his successful managerial spell adds intriguing context. The German coach knows his former club’s strengths and weaknesses intimately, providing tactical advantages in preparation and game management. Rose will organize Leipzig to exploit Gladbach’s defensive vulnerabilities while maintaining the defensive discipline that has characterized their season.
Gladbach’s recent improvement suggests they won’t capitulate easily. The victories over Werder Bremen and FC Köln demonstrated their attacking quality, while the defensive organization shown in the goalless draw against Freiburg proved they can compete when focused. However, Leipzig represent a significant step up in quality from those opponents.
The absence of Tim Kleindienst weakens Gladbach’s attacking threat considerably. The German striker’s physical presence and goal-scoring instinct have been crucial to their recent success, and Tomáš Čvančara faces enormous pressure making his first start in over two months. This lack of match fitness could prove decisive in the final stages of a tight contest.
Leipzig’s multiple injuries create some uncertainty, but their squad depth should compensate adequately. Even without Xavi Simons and David Raum, Leipzig possess sufficient quality to control matches and create scoring opportunities. The partnership between Openda and Šeško continues to flourish, providing the attacking foundation for Leipzig’s title challenge.
Final Prediction: Borussia Mönchengladbach 1-2 RB Leipzig
Leipzig will secure a professional, disciplined victory that extends their unbeaten record at Borussia-Park and maintains pressure on Bayern Munich. Gladbach will fight valiantly and create chances but ultimately lack the quality and experience to overcome Leipzig’s tactical organization and individual brilliance.
The visitors will control possession, create the better chances, and demonstrate why they’re considered Bayern’s primary title challengers. Gladbach will score but leave disappointed, extending their winless run against Leipzig at home and remaining in the lower reaches of the Bundesliga table. This result maintains the established hierarchy while providing Leipzig with crucial points in their pursuit of Bayern Munich.
