New Delhi: Bayer Leverkusen kicked off their Bundesliga title defense in thrilling fashion with a 3-2 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach in the opening match of the 2024/25 season. It was a match that lived up to the hype, with goals, drama, and a nail-biting finish that saw Leverkusen clinch the win in the dying moments of added time yet again. This result extended Leverkusen’s undefeated league run to 35 matches, a streak that began last season when they went unbeaten throughout the entire campaign. Xabi Alonso’s men showed their resilience and quality, setting the tone for what could be another dominant season.
The match started with Leverkusen asserting their dominance early on. Granit Xhaka, facing his former club, opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a stunning long-range strike. The Swiss midfielder, known for his powerful shots, found the top left corner from 20 metres out, leaving Gladbach’s keeper with no chance. Xhaka’s muted celebration showed respect for his past, but his goal set the stage for Leverkusen’s control in the first half.
YESSSS!!! We open the season with a win! 💪⚫️🔴
90+10′ | 2-2 | #BMGB04 pic.twitter.com/iKDQX0QEKx
— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) August 23, 2024
Leverkusen continued to press and almost doubled their lead when Victor Boniface rattled the crossbar in the 18th minute. Just five minutes later, Edmond Tapsoba hit the post, as the visitors looked to capitalise on their dominance. Their efforts paid off in the 38th minute when Florian Wirtz, one of Leverkusen’s brightest stars, calmly slotted home from close range after a defensive mix-up by Gladbach. This was Wirtz’s second goal of the match and his 43rd for the club, further establishing his importance to Alonso’s side.
Gladbach had a brief moment of hope just before halftime when Tim Kleindienst thought he had pulled one back, only for the goal to be disallowed after a video review due to a foul in the build-up. This decision kept the score at 2-0 going into the break, with Leverkusen firmly in control.
The second half saw a renewed effort from Gladbach, who managed to claw their way back into the match. In the 59th minute, Nico Elvedi capitalised on a second chance after his initial header was saved. The defender made no mistake the second time, heading in from close range to give Gladbach a lifeline. Leverkusen’s earlier wastefulness in front of goal now looked like it might come back to haunt them.
Gladbach’s persistence paid off again in the 85th minute when Kleindienst finally got his goal, firing home from the centre of the box after a slick pass from Stöger. The equaliser sent the home fans into a frenzy, and it seemed like Gladbach had salvaged a point.
However, Leverkusen’s reputation for late drama was once again on display. Deep into injury time, Wirtz stepped up to take a penalty after a handball was spotted by VAR. The young midfielder coolly converted in the 101st minute, sealing the victory for Leverkusen and breaking Gladbach hearts.
Leverkusen’s ability to find a way to win, even when under pressure, highlighted why they are the reigning champions. Alonso’s side, despite some nervy moments, showed their quality and mental strength, ensuring they start their title defense with all three points.
Leverkusen’s remarkable streak of last-minute goals continued as they secured a dramatic win over Mönchengladbach in the Bundesliga opener. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
