Bayer Leverkusen delivered a statement victory in the Bundesliga on Sunday, securing a 3-1 win against Hoffenheim despite being reduced to 10 men for the final 30 minutes.
Leverkusen Hold Firm After Grimaldo’s Red Card
Xabi Alonso’s side raced to a 3-0 lead by the 60th minute before Alejandro Grimaldo picked up a second yellow card. Hoffenheim’s Gift Orban pulled one back, but Leverkusen showed resilience to close out the match and maintain their title chase.
“It felt like two different games—one with 11 players and another with 10. We handled both well,” Alonso said. “Even when we had fewer men, we stayed in control and limited their chances.”
Tactical Shift Sees Buendía Sacrificed for Stability
Emiliano Buendía, making his Leverkusen debut after joining on loan from Aston Villa, was introduced at halftime but had to be withdrawn for Mario Hermoso following Grimaldo’s dismissal.
“It was tough to take him off, but it was the right decision,” Alonso admitted. “We needed to stay solid defensively, and the team responded well.”
Leverkusen Keep Bundesliga Title Hopes Alive
With the win, Bayer Leverkusen remain six points behind Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga title race. Their attention now shifts to the DFB-Pokal quarter-finals against Köln on Wednesday, followed by a tough Bundesliga clash against Wolfsburg on Saturday.