Coach Xabi Alonso attributes this turnaround to significant improvements in defensive play, emphasizing the team's commitment despite facing several injuries.

Alonso praised the team's performance in recent matches, highlighting the importance of becoming more solid defensively.

Despite recent home successes, Freiburg has struggled in away matches, failing to win any of their last four Bundesliga away games.

Injuries will impact both teams, with Leverkusen missing players like Jonas Hofmann and Victor Boniface, while Freiburg will be without Daniel-Kofi Kyereh.

The match is crucial for both teams, as only two points separate them in the standings, with both vying for a strong finish before the winter break.

In contrast, SC Freiburg, currently in fifth place with 24 points, has displayed defensive vulnerabilities, conceding 19 goals while scoring 20.

Bayer Leverkusen currently sits in second place in the Bundesliga with 29 points, just four points behind leaders Bayern Munich, following a recent 2-0 victory over Augsburg.

The team has shown remarkable resilience, bouncing back from a challenging stretch of five draws in six games to achieve four consecutive league wins.

Freiburg's recent form has been inconsistent, with two wins, two losses, and one draw in their last five matches.

Key player Vincenzo Grifo leads Freiburg with seven assists and three goals, showcasing his effectiveness in dead-ball situations.

Alonso emphasized the importance of the upcoming match against Freiburg, aiming to end the year positively with a strong performance.

Florian Wirtz, a standout player for Leverkusen, has been in fine form, contributing significantly to the team's goal tally.