One Hofmann doesn't make a summer

Bayer 04 has done it: with a narrow 1-0 victory over the regional league side FC Carl Zeiss Jena, the Werkself advances to the second round of the DFB-Pokal. However, the titleholders had a harder time than expected and displayed a mixed performance in Jena. Jonas Hofmann was the sole sharp shooter of the evening, heading in the decisive goal from a precise cross by Alejandro Grimaldo.

Xabi Alonso made significant changes, rotating his squad with seven changes from the starting lineup that saw a 3-2 victory in their Bundesliga opener against Borussia Mönchengladbach. Matej Kovar replaced the ill Lukas Hradecky in goal, and there were several other adjustments in defense and midfield. Fans did not see Victor Boniface and Martin Terrier on the pitch, as both players were suspended. However, the inclusion of three U19 players in the squad provided a glimpse into the future for the fans.

Bayer 04 appeared to have control of the game right from the start, with plenty of possession and confident passing to try to break down Jena’s compact defense. Amine Adli was unlucky in the 16th minute, hitting the post. Jena, however, did not make it easy for the Werkself, defending with determination and often pushing forward with courage. Leverkusen struggled to impose their game and went into halftime with a goalless draw.

After the break, Alonso brought on Alejandro Grimaldo, who immediately added fresh energy to the game. The Spaniard made his presence felt right away, providing the perfect cross in the 52nd minute for Jonas Hofmann to head Bayer 04 into a 1-0 lead. Following this, Bayer 04 seemed more focused on controlling the game rather than extending their lead. In the 65th minute, Matej Kovar made a crucial save to deny Seidemann the equalizer, but Leverkusen had to endure a tense finish. In stoppage time, Jena’s Muqaj missed a close-range opportunity, much to the relief of the Leverkusen side.

In the end, it was a hard-fought win for Bayer 04 Leverkusen—certainly not one for the history books, but it ensured their progress in the cup. The narrow victory against a spirited regional league team shows that there are still some adjustments to be made to meet their high standards. Next up for the Werkself is a major challenge on Saturday against RB Leipzig, and Xabi Alonso will be hoping his players regain their sharpness and freshness by then.

But it wasn't just about the game itself: the team wore black armbands in memory of the recently deceased Christoph Daum, who had a significant impact on the club in the late 1990s. Additionally, the players sported the German Cancer Aid logo on their sleeves to celebrate the charity's 50th anniversary and raise awareness for its valuable work.

All in all, Bayer 04 accomplished their mission in the DFB-Pokal, but there is clearly room for improvement. This narrow win might serve as a timely wake-up call, as the season is still young and the toughest tests are yet to come. Let’s hope the Werkself can bring more flair to the pitch in the next match—hopefully with a bit more comfort for the fans' nerves.