Bayer Leverkusen 3-1 VfL Bochum: Die Werkself close gap on Bayern with hard-fought win over Bochum

Bayer Leverkusen secured a crucial 3-1 victory over relegation-threatened VfL Bochum on Friday, narrowing the gap to Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich to just three points.

Victor Boniface struck on the hour mark, and Amine Adli added a late goal in the 87th minute, ensuring Leverkusen moved up to 59 points with seven matches remaining. The reigning champions, currently second in the standings, now turn their attention to Tuesday’s German Cup semi-final against Arminia Bielefeld. Meanwhile, Bayern, sitting on 62 points, will host St Pauli on Saturday.

Despite the final scoreline, Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso acknowledged Bochum’s resilience. "It was really a tough game despite this result," Alonso said. "Bochum were disciplined, well-organised. It may not have been a super-spectacular performance, but we remained patient, stayed calm, and if we do that, we will get a chance for the next seven games. We will try to win them and see what happens."

With Florian Wirtz sidelined due to injury, Alonso opted for a two-striker formation, starting Boniface alongside Patrik Schick. Leverkusen took the lead in the 20th minute when Aleix Garcia capitalized on space outside the box to drill home. However, Bochum, fresh off victories against Bayern and Borussia Dortmund in recent weeks, responded swiftly. Felix Passlack leveled the score just six minutes later, converting a rebound after a save from Lukas Hradecky.

Leverkusen regained control in the 60th minute when Boniface found himself unmarked at the far post, bundling the ball over the line with his knee for his eighth Bundesliga goal of the season. Jeremie Frimpong nearly extended the lead in the 78th minute, narrowly missing the target following a swift counter-attack. Boniface thought he had netted again moments later, but his goal was ruled offside.

Adli sealed the victory with a composed finish from an Exequiel Palacios assist, while Granit Xhaka almost added to the spectacle, striking both posts with a stoppage-time effort.

"So it was a super win today and we will wait for the results on the weekend. We did our job and from tomorrow we start thinking about the Cup," Alonso concluded.

SportsLigue