Robert Andrich and Patrik Schick scored late goals for Bayer Leverkusen, helping them secure a 2-1 victory over Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga on Saturday and preventing their first loss of the season.
Leverkusen were on the brink of ending their German record 38-game unbeaten streak, especially in their first match since coach Xabi Alonso confirmed he’s staying at the club. However, Andrich equalized in the 88th minute, followed by Schick’s winning goal in stoppage time.
Despite Maximilian Beier scoring for Hoffenheim in the 33rd minute, Leverkusen’s persistent pressure paid off eventually.
This win keeps Leverkusen in contention for their first-ever Bundesliga title and extends their unbeaten run to 39 games. They haven’t suffered a defeat since the last day of the previous season against Bochum.
Leverkusen now holds a 13-point lead over Bayern Munich before Bayern faces Borussia Dortmund later in “der Klassiker.”
Furthermore, Leverkusen’s victory secures their spot in the Champions League for next season, guaranteeing at least a fourth-place finish. With seven rounds remaining after this weekend, Leverkusen needs four more wins to ensure the title.
In other matches, Freiburg defeated Borussia Mönchengladbach 3-0 away, marking Christian Streich’s final season with the club. Additionally, Wolfsburg secured a 2-0 victory against 10-man Werder Bremen in Ralph Hasenhüttl’s coaching debut, with both teams ending the match with a player sent off. Eintracht Frankfurt drew 0-0 with Union Berlin, while Mainz held Leipzig to another goalless draw.
