Bayer Leverkusen experienced their first Bundesliga loss in 36 matches, falling 3-2 to Leipzig at BayArena. Xabi Alonso’s team saw their lead slip away as Lois Openda scored twice for Marco Rose’s side, who came from behind to secure victory.
Initially, it seemed like a routine game for the reigning champions when Jeremie Frimpong and Alejandro Grimaldo netted two goals in the final seven minutes of the first half. However, Leipzig responded during first-half stoppage time with Kevin Kampl narrowing the gap.
Openda equalised for Leipzig in the 57th minute. He then completed the comeback with a remarkable long-range goal ten minutes before the end, handing Leverkusen their first league defeat in over a year.
Leipzig became the first team to defeat Leverkusen in a Bundesliga match since Bochum did so 462 days earlier. This victory marks only the second time Leipzig has started a Bundesliga season with two consecutive wins, replicating their 2019-20 performance.
The visitors are now unbeaten in 13 league matches, their longest streak since Rose took over. Meanwhile, Leverkusen’s impressive unbeaten run at home, spanning 29 games, has also come to an end.
This defeat not only ended Leverkusen’s long unbeaten streak but also marked their first home loss in nearly two years. The result propels Leipzig to the top of the table with two wins from two matches this season.
The dramatic turnaround by Leipzig underscores their strong start under Marco Rose. Their ability to recover from a two-goal deficit demonstrates resilience and tactical acumen.
For Leverkusen, this match serves as a wake-up call after an extended period of dominance. They will need to regroup quickly to maintain their competitive edge in the league.
The clash at BayArena highlighted both teams’ strengths and weaknesses, setting the stage for an intriguing Bundesliga season ahead.
