Bayer Leverkusen 3-1 TSG Hoffenheim: 10-man Die Werkself cruise past visitors to keep pace in Bundesliga title race

Bayer Leverkusen kept their Bundesliga title hopes alive with a 3-1 home win against Hoffenheim on Sunday, ensuring they remain six points behind league leaders Bayern Munich. The victory saw Leverkusen bounce back from last week’s disappointing 2-2 draw at RB Leipzig, keeping them second in the table with 45 points. Meanwhile, Hoffenheim continue to hover just above the relegation zone, sitting in 15th place with 18 points—only four clear of danger.

The hosts took control early, with Victor Boniface marking his return from injury by slotting home from an Alejandro Grimaldo assist in the 15th minute. Just five minutes later, Jeremie Frimpong doubled the lead, calmly finishing after a well-placed through ball from Aleix Garcia. Patrik Schick added a third goal in the 51st minute, smashing a stunning shot into the top right corner.

"Victor was injured for a long time and hit the target again straight away," Schick said about his teammate. "I know myself how difficult that is. It's also very important for him that he scored again straight away."

Leverkusen nearly had a chance to extend their lead before halftime, winning a penalty that was later overturned by VAR. In a historic moment, the referee announced the decision to fans via the stadium speakers, marking a first in Bundesliga history.

Despite their dominance, Leverkusen were dealt a setback when Grimaldo received a second yellow card in the 60th minute, reducing the hosts to 10 men. Hoffenheim capitalized just two minutes later, with substitute Gift Orban scoring from close range to give his side hope. However, despite their numerical advantage, Hoffenheim struggled to build momentum and failed to mount a comeback.

Leverkusen, who haven't lost in the Bundesliga since August, now shift focus to their German Cup quarter-final clash against Cologne on Wednesday.

"Of course we would have preferred to have won 3-0," defender Jonathan Tah reflected after the match. "But, overall, it was a good game from us. Now we're looking forward to Wednesday."

SportsLigue