LIGHT OF HOPE–Bayer Leverkusen have continued their positive trend, after beating Mainz with a score of 2-1 in the continuation of Week 23 of the Bundesliga match at BayArena on Saturday morning WIB.
Leverkusen managed to take the lead through Granit Xhaka’s goal, before the home team equalized through Dominik Kohr. Leverkusen’s winning goal was scored by Robert Andrich.
Based on the official Bundesliga website, this result makes Leverkusen even stronger at the top of the Bundesliga standings with 61 points. They are 11 points ahead of Bayern Munich in second place.
Meanwhile, it is increasingly difficult for Mainz to get out of the relegation zone, because they still have 15 points from 23 matches.
The hosts tried to press from the first minute. As a result, Leverkusen managed to take a 1-0 lead in the third minute through Granit Xhaka’s curling shot from outside the penalty box which successfully nestled into the top corner of the Mainz goal.
Leverkusen’s lead only lasted three minutes after Mainz equalized the score at 1-1.
Taking advantage of a free throw scheme, Silvan Widmen released a pass with a header and the ball was immediately struck by Dominik Kohr’s head.
Jonas Hofmann almost led Leverkusen to score a second goal in the 15th minute. Just facing the goalkeeper, Hoffmann’s shot was still saved by Robin Zentner.
It was Jeremie Frimpong’s turn to miss the opportunity in the 21st minute, his shot from close range was blocked by the Mainz goalkeeper.
There were no additional goals from Leverkusen in the first half even though they continued to press. The 1-1 score lasted until halftime.
Mainz were more attacking in the first 10 minutes of the second half. The hosts had many chances, but none were able to be converted into goals.
Leverkusen was actually able to score the second goal in the 68th minute. This time, it was Robert Andrich who got his name on the scoreboard after his long-range shot missed Zentner’s catch. The score became 2-1 in favor of Leverkusen.
Mainz had to play with 10 men in the 81st minute. Jessic Ngankam was given a straight red card after breaking Xhaka hard.
Leverkusen failed to take advantage of their superior number of players to add goals in the remaining time. The 2-1 score lasted until the match was finished.