462 days later: Leipzig ends Bayer's unbeaten run

It could have gone on so beautifully! Bayer 04 had been unbeaten in the Bundesliga for over a year, but Leipzig came along and ended the streak after 462 days – naturally with a dramatic 3-2 scoreline. This showdown with RB Leipzig turned out, as expected, to be another spectacle. For the third consecutive match between these two teams, five goals were scored. This time, however, it was a disappointment for Werkself fans as the Saxons came back from 0-2 to take the win.

The start of the game looked promising. Bayer 04 came out firing, and Jeremie Frimpong scored a well-deserved opener in the 39th minute. Alejandro Grimaldo followed up with a precise finish just before halftime, making it 2-0! But before fans could even grab their halftime snacks, Kevin Kampl had already cut the deficit in stoppage time. This moment would prove to be a game-changer.

The second half? A nightmare for Leverkusen supporters. Leipzig returned from the break with serious momentum and began piling pressure on the Werkself. First, Lois Openda scored the equalizer, and then he added the winning goal. A quick double strike that handed Bayer their first league defeat in what felt like forever. An equalizer? It never came, despite all efforts.

Coach Xabi Alonso offered a straightforward analysis: "After the 2-0 lead, we lost control and gave Leipzig too much space." This was the key issue – the defense, usually so solid, was porous against Leipzig’s attack. Jonathan Tah was blunt in his assessment: "We fell asleep in some situations." You simply can’t afford these kinds of lapses in the Bundesliga, especially not against a team like Leipzig, who ruthlessly capitalize on mistakes.

The post-game numbers: 62% possession, 26:8 shots, and 18:2 corners in favor of Bayer 04. That sounds like an easy win – if only football were that simple! All that dominance amounted to nothing, as the opponent was given too much freedom in the most critical moments.

Now it’s time to catch a breath. The first international break of the season is here, giving Bayer 04 a chance to heal their wounds. Several players will be on international duty, while Xabi Alonso prepares the rest of the squad for the next challenges. On September 14, Bayer heads to Sinsheim to face Hoffenheim – an opportunity to correct the rocky start and kickstart a new unbeaten run.