Metalist vs Bayer Leverkusen Preview

Posted Thursday, February 17, 2011 by ESPN

Bayer Leverkusen coach Jupp Heynckes has warned his team they cannot expect to dominate their tie against Metalist Kharkiv.

The Bundesliga high fliers will be seen as overwhelming favourites going into the clash with the Ukrainian outfit, particularly after topping Group B with an unbeaten record.

But Metalist's last two home games in Group I ended in 2-1 wins over Sampdoria - whom they also eliminated at this stage of the 2008-09 UEFA Cup - and Debrecen.

They also won 5-0 in the away fixture against the Hungarians, adding to a record of six wins and only two defeats in 12 European away games under coach Myron Markevich.

And Heynckes insisted: "Metalist Kharkiv are equal opponents and have a team with top quality.

"European Cup games are something special for both teams. They are the cream puff in football."

The Werkself will be without star midfielders Michael Ballack and Tranquillo Barnetta, who are both recovering from knee injuries, and back-up goalkeeper Fabian Giefer due to a pulled stomach muscle.

Germany defender Manuel Friedrich, one of only two confirmed starters as Heynckes delays the announcement of his line-up, admits the temperature of minus 10 degrees which greeted them on their arrival in Ukraine was a culture shock.

"You don't play 90 minutes very often in these temperatures," he said. "That won't make it any easier."

Metalist lie third in the Ukrainian Superliga, which has seen no activity since late November.

And Brazilian striker Tyson told the club website: "We have to quickly find our form, we have had a lot of practice matches."

The 23-year-old is encouraged by his link-up with Argentinian Kristaldo Blanco in attack as the club's South American contingent continues to grow.

He said: "I get on well with them. They are good guys and have helped me to adapt."