Schick's Double Helps Leverkusen Edge Dortmund in Thrilling Encounter

Bayer Leverkusen secured a 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund to extend their winning streak to six games, with Patrik Schick scoring twice.

Bayer Leverkusen secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund, inflicting the hosts' first home league defeat of the season. Leverkusen's impressive win, fueled by a three-goal flurry in the opening 18 minutes, propelled them within a point of league leaders Bayern Munich.

The match, delayed by 15 minutes due to traffic congestion outside the stadium, quickly turned into a nightmare for the home fans. Borussia Dortmund's weakened side struggled to cope with Bayer Leverkusen's rapid start, orchestrated by manager Xabi Alonso. The home team's makeshift back-four was exposed early on, and they were unable to recover from the early onslaught.

Bayer Leverkusen drew first blood just 25 seconds into the match, capitalizing on Dortmund's defensive vulnerability. Nathan Tella dispossessed the home team's back-four and unleashed a stunning volley on the turn, which left goalkeeper Gregor Kobel with no chance. The goal set the tone for Leverkusen's dominant start, which ultimately proved decisive in securing the win.

Patrik Schick continued his impressive goal-scoring form, netting his 10th goal in six Bundesliga appearances. The Czech striker slid in at the back post to convert a precise Piero Hincapié cross, doubling Bayer Leverkusen's lead.

Despite a disastrous start to the game, Borussia Dortmund managed to find a response through Jamie Gittens. The Englishman showcased his skill, delicately chipping the ball over Lukas Hradecky from a tight angle after latching onto a deflected cross. This goal reduced the deficit and offered BVB a glimmer of hope.

However, Patrik Schick struck again, restoring Bayer Leverkusen's two-goal advantage. The striker found space at the far post and converted a low cross, leaving Dortmund with an uphill battle.

Lukas Hradecky, Bayer Leverkusen's Finnish goalkeeper, made two crucial saves to preserve his team's lead heading into the second half. He first denied Serhou Guirassy with a remarkable save from a deflected shot and then thwarted Karim Adeyemi's effort from the edge of the box.

Starting 2025 with a W! 😮‍💨

90+5' | 2-3 | #BVBB04 pic.twitter.com/fGfVh4yEMT

— Bayer 04 Leverkusen (@bayer04_en) January 10, 2025

The second half was a more subdued affair, with Bayer Leverkusen seemingly cruising towards their ninth consecutive win. However, with just over 10 minutes remaining, Edmond Tapsoba conceded a penalty by bringing down Julien Duranville in the box. Serhou Guirassy stepped up and slotted home the penalty, setting up a tense finale.

The electric atmosphere at Signal Iduna Park was reignited as the Pet Shop Boys' music filled the air following Serhou Guirassy's penalty goal. The Yellow Wall, Borussia Dortmund's infamous fan section, found its voice once more, and the team's spirits were lifted. However, Bayer Leverkusen's resilience and determination proved too much for the hosts to overcome.