Bayer Leverkusen unbeaten run of 35-game in the Bundesliga came to an end in their home field on Saturday, August 31.
In-form RB Leipzig staged a remarkable comeback to secure a 3-2 victory against Xabi Alonso’s team.
The reigning Champions were on the verge of equalling Hamburg’s record of 36 unbeaten games from the 1982-83 season, which is the second-longest run in history behind Bayern Munich’s incredible 53-game streak under Pep Guardiola.
However, Lois Openda’s brace thwarted their hope as Leipzig became the first team to defeat Leverkusen in the Bundesliga after their 462-day unbeaten streak.
How Leipzig ended Bayer Leverkusen unbeaten run
Leverkusen had initially taken control of the match, with Jeremie Frimpong and Alejandro Grimaldo scoring to give the host a 2-0 lead in the first half.
The momentum continued to build as Victor Boniface had a glorious chance to extend the lead to 3-0 in first-half stoppage time, following a corner kick.
However, Boniface was unable to capitalize on the opportunity, paving the way for Leipzig’s stunning comeback.
Kevin Kampl scored a diving header to bring Leipzig within one goal, heightening the confidence of the visiting club.
Afterward, Openda returned parity as he received Benjamin Sesko’s pass and unleashed an unstoppable shot from distance, leaving Leverkusen keeper Matej Kovar helpless.
Openda completed the ruin and secured the lead for Leipzig with a goal 10 minutes before the end, skillfully putting the ball past Edmond Tapsoba for the second time of the match.
Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen’s renowned ability to snatch late goals, a hallmark of their impressive unbeaten streak, deserted them in this crucial match.
Leipzig narrowly escaped a late penalty call as the referee, aided by VAR, determined that Castello Lukeba’s tackle on Patrik Schick did not warrant a penalty.
The outcome propelled Leipzig to the summit of the Bundesliga table with six points, while Leverkusen slipped to ninth place with three points, a stark contrast to their previous dominance.
Leipzig’s winning streak continues as they halt Bayer Leverkusen unbeaten run
Bayer Leverkusen have proven that no glory lasts forever following their home defeat to Leipzig, which may serve them a bad omen for the rest of the season.
Leverkusen’s last league loss dated back to the final day of the 2022-23 season, a 3-0 defeat to Bochum.
On the other hand, Leipzig’s victory extended their impressive unbeaten streak in the Bundesliga to 13 matches, a run that stretches back to the previous season.
This win marks a significant milestone for Leipzig, solidifying their position as a top contender in the league.
However, the defeat is a significant setback for Leverkusen, who will look to bounce back from this loss and regain their momentum in the title race.
What’s next for Bayer Leverkusen?
Following the end of Bayer Leverkusen’s unbeaten run, Xabi Alonso’s side will look to revive their dominance in the Bundesliga when they face Hoffenheim on September 14.
Can Bayer Leverkusen bounce back and defend their Bundesliga title this season after the end of their unbeaten streak and current position in the league? Please, share your thoughts with us in the comment box below: