Manchester United-Bayer Leverkusen Preview

Hugh Wilson is backing David Moyes' side to get off to a fantastic start in this year's competition after the last campaign ended in controversy
Six months ago Manchester United exited the Uefa Champions League at the hands of Real Madrid after a controversial red card shifted the momentum in the last 16 tie. 

A goal from ex-United man Cristiano Ronaldo saw Real Madrid progress after Nani was sent off in the in that game and the Reds welcome German outfit Bayer Leverkusen to Old Trafford in the first match of Group A this season.

United come into this match after a solid win at the weekend, beating newly promoted Crystal Palace 2-0, with goals from Robin Van Persie and Wayne Rooney. 

This saw David Moyes record his first victory infront of the Old Trafford faithful after drawing with Chelsea in the second game week. 

United and Leverkusen are joined in the group by Real Sociedad and Shakhtar Donetsk, so this will be a key game to win for Moyes. BetVictor price them at 3/4 (1.75) to take all three points.

Bayer Leverkusen, managed by former Liverpool man Sami Hyypia appear in the Champions League for the first time since their 10-2 aggregate loss to Barcelona in the 2011/12 last 16 tie. The Germans will be keen to erase that from their memories and come into this match is good form. 

Hyypia's side have lost only once this campaign and they sit in third position in the Bundesliga, trailing only Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. BetVictor price the away side at 17/4 (5.25) to cause a shock. The same firm price the draw at 14/5 (3.80).

Despite Leverkusen coming into this game having won a number of fixtures already this season, they have struggled away from home in the Champions League in the past. 

Bayer haven't won away in their last 13 matches, unable to beat the likes of Genk, Valencia and Chelsea in the 11/12 competition. 

Manchester United will know a strong start will be key, and with Rooney and Van Persie looking good at the weekend, expect them to lead United to three points, with the 3/4 (1.75) price looking good for a United win.

For those looking for more value, backing United's top scorer last season Robin Van Persie to net anytime at 11/10 (2.10) with BetVictor is a fantastic price. The Dutch striker has netted eight goals in his last eight competitive matches, including four in his last three. Punters can expect him to lead from the front once again.

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